Gonville & Caius, Cockerell Building.

Project Overview

Gonville & Caius College, Cockerell Building.

We have commenced our project management appointment (under the Old Schools heating project and appointed by Estate Management) for the plant room works within Gonville & Caius’ library building, which is located next to the Senate House in the centre of Cambridge

The works are programmed to last 4 months and include the replacement of the existing boilers with new high efficiency gas condensing boilers, new flue systems, removal of asbestos contamination and installation of a new power cable, to be run across the front of the historic colonnade and below the pavings of the Grade I listed buildings surrounding the iconic courtyard.

The works must be completed before the commencement of the new academic term, when the new heating season starts and students return for full use of the library building.

The challenges faced to date have included obstructions below the historic pavings, noise generation affecting building function, difficulties removing the existing flues, reduced space in the plant room and existing openings to achieve modern standards for ventilation and combustion, increased space for higher performance pumps, pipework and equipment, additional electrical panels and vessels.

All works are in compliance with the city council’s conservation department requirements and the conditions for the Grade I listed buildings and conservation area consent.

The 3 buildings all remain in full academic and administrative office function with frequent, high profile visits from royalty, political dignitaries and significant academic commemorative events.