First phase of major college
development completes
01 December 2008
Leading public sector architect practice, Nightingale Associates, has completed the first phase of a large-scale refurbishment of educational establishment, the Colchester Institute.
Nightingale Associates, who specialise in designing health, education and science buildings, were appointed to undertake the redevelopment of the College’s existing Sheepen Road campus in 2007. The completed first phase forms part of a large-scale, four-year project, in which the College’s existing 16 buildings will be combined to create three larger buildings. When fully completed, the development will provide 20,600m/sq of new build and 7,192m/sq of remodelled accommodation.
“This is a large-scale project from which the Institute requires sustainable, versatile accommodation through which to provide its students and staff with a high quality, attractive learning environment.
“The fact that the construction was (and is) taking place on a ‘live site’, meant that the phasing strategy needed to be extensively developed. The Institute required minimal disruption to normal activities, so each phase will completed before work on the next phase can begin.”
Marc Smith, Director, Nightingale Associates
The project includes the retention, re-cladding and re-servicing of the College’s two existing five-storey structures using fast-track construction methods and a Two-Stage Design and Build procurement route.
The project, which is one of the largest developments in the Colchester area, is situated on the main route into the city and will be seen from a large area.
“Design quality is paramount for this project as it will be seen from many different points in the area. It is therefore especially important that the development is integrated into the community and fits in with the very varied landscape that surrounds it.”
Smith continued
The development, which has received LSC funding, is currently undergoing a BREEAM assessment, from which a ‘very good’ rating is required in terms of its environmental sustainability.
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