The £4m refurbishment of the Graham building brings more sustainable student accommodation to the Victoria Park Campus in Manchester
The sustainable student accommodation project was completed in eight months, in a live environment.
Delivered as part of the University’s Environmental Sustainability Strategy, which set a zero carbon by 2038 target, the refurbishment enhanced the building’s thermal capabilities and utilisation of renewable energy sources.
The project was delivered by the property services division of North-West based contractor Seddon.
Refurbishments included asbestos removal and more efficient water heating
Seddon removed all asbestos from the site, which included ceiling tiles and Artex surface coating. Replacing the absestos-afflicted areas required reconnecting mechanical and electric services to the ceiling.
The project included a three-storey extension comprising a water tank room on the ground floor, bedroom spaces on the first floor and a plant room on the second floor.
The improved plant room helps heat water far quicker, saving water wastage.
Alongside the improved sizing of its 48 bedrooms, the extensions will greatly improve the student experience whilst maximising the energy efficiency and heat retention of the building.
Solar panels were installed to support the University’s efforts to achieve renewable electricity commitment.
Sustainability features of the project include specialist composite windows, procured from Denmark, made from a combination of timber and aluminium for optimum performance.
Sustainable student accommodation is a key part of the University’s strategy
John Shannon, managing director of property services at Seddon said: “We are pleased to have supported the University of Manchester in its efforts to achieve net zero. We completed this eight-month project in a live environment, working to minimise disruption to students and staff.
“The works will greatly improve the building’s thermal capabilities, minimise the property’s running costs and offer impressive improvements to the student experience. It represents a vital step on the University’s journey towards carbon neutrality.”
