The Faraday Lecture block on the Singleton Park campus is set to undergo a major £2.75m transformation via an 11 month project starting in January 2012.
The existing façade around the entire building will be replaced with a contemporary, coloured glass curtain wall and cladding system, adding much needed vibrancy to the building and the Mall area.
Built over 40 years ago, the existing Faraday building possesses a tired and monotonous design detracting from the overall appearance of the campus and surrounding buildings and is not considered fit for an ambitious, developing University. The project will introduce new material, colour and pattern to this central section of the campus.
In addition to enhancing the physical appearance of the building, the proposed project being carried out by Leadbitter, is set to extend the useful life of the facility whilst dramatically improving environmental performance, potentially reducing carbon emissions by up to 22% whilst improving visual, thermal and acoustic properties. A remodelled main entrance will improve access whilst adding additional floor space to the 2nd floor.
Fiona Nixon, Acting Head of Estates said “Our current Capital Programme for the Singleton Campus addresses three main aims – Reducing backlog maintenance, improving environmental performance and enhancing the student experience. We are confident that this project is consistent with all three themes and we are excited to be taking it forward”.
Preparation work will begin during the Christmas vacation and the planning of works has been carefully scheduled to minimise impact to teaching and campus activity with the majority of construction taking place during the Easter vacation and summer months.
On viewing the visual proposals for the building, Business Management student Sian Powell commented “It’ll create a good impression and reflect the standards that Swansea holds and a professional atmosphere that fits in with the degrees that are taught in that building”.
The project is currently due for completion in November 2012.
