ASPG Refurbishment Works (Phases 1 & 2) – Durham University
Client: Durham University
Architect : Howarth Litchfield
Value: £600K Phase 1 | £250K Phase 2
Project overview
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The ASPG programme was part of Durham University’s strategy to modernise teaching and research facilities across multiple science departments. We were appointed to deliver phased refurbishment works across several buildings.
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Scope of work
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Phase 1: Refurbishment of laboratories in Geography (Biomaker Lab), Physics (Labs 14, 50, 74) and Hannah Williams Lab, with full strip-out of ceilings, flooring, partitions, M&E services and fume cupboards. Remodelling included new partitions, ceilings, doors, finishes, fixtures, fume cupboards and M&E upgrades such as AHUs, LEV systems, alarms, monitoring, BMS integration and electrical services. The Psychology lift was installed in a constrained courtyard, requiring careful logistics to move 30 tonnes of materials through live corridors.
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Phase 2 - Batch B: Works included the Dawson Building (3rd Floor), where demolition, M&E strip-out, and remodelling were carried out with new walls, fire stopping, ceilings, flooring, FFE and decoration. At Hallgarth House, new walls, M&E works, fire stopping, doors, finishes and FFE were installed. In Biosciences, scaffold and roof penetrations were completed for new ventilation, oxygen-free gas was installed, the Mars 1500 Biological Safety Cabinet was reinstated and new benching and ceilings were fitted.
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Challenges & Solutions
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Live Environment: Works took place in buildings with 24/7 occupancy. Safe segregation, traffic management and out-of-hours scheduling minimised disruption.
Complex Logistics: Lift installation required moving large materials through confined corridors. This was managed through phased delivery and protective measures.
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Asbestos Risks: Surveys confirmed no ACMs. Teams were trained to respond to any suspect materials using established emergency procedures.
Multi-site Coordination: Simultaneous works across buildings required careful phasing and coordination to avoid clashes with teaching and research schedules.
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End result
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The project delivered modernised laboratories and research environments with upgraded ventilation, fume cupboards, safety systems and specialist equipment. The new Psychology lift improved accessibility. Works were completed on time and within budget, with estates staff and end-users praising the high-quality finish and minimal disruption.
