Construction firm G F Tomlinson has completed the complex and highly specialised task of removing and replacing the original roof of the Grade II Listed Central Building at the University of Nottingham\s Castle Meadow Campus.

The project is part of a major refurbishment to safeguard and enhance the lifespan of the architectural landmark, which is recognised for its striking design and historical value. The original PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) roof, installed in 1994 by renowned Hopkins Architects and Arup, has been replaced with a modern tensile structure using advanced PVDF fabric—considered the latest in roofing technology. The roof had previously been described as one of the most complex of its kind in Europe.

The Central Building received Grade II listed status just prior to the start of construction—making it one of the youngest buildings in the UK to earn such recognition at just 30 years old. This designation introduced additional conservation requirements, necessitating a meticulous approach to preserve the building's integrity while achieving contemporary refurbishment goals.

The restoration process began in mid-2024, with key structural upgrades including removal of original glass elements, repainting of the frame, and restoration of vital components. Temporary rigging and birdcage scaffolding were installed to support the roof removal process, which was carried out in stages: beginning with the North and South sections, followed by the Main Roof Central segment featuring its signature three floating oculi, and concluding with the East and West portions.

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Structural reinforcements, including additional welding and component replacement, were conducted prior to the installation of the new fabric. The upgraded roof now spans approximately 4,500 square metres—roughly the size of seven tennis courts. To facilitate the operation, a seven-metre-tall scaffold weighing 60 tonnes was erected, covering an area of 945 square metres. Over 5,000 bolts were replaced during the works, and 15 tonnes of existing glass will be reinstalled alongside four tonnes of new glazing.

Refurbishment continues with the addition of a glulam mezzanine floor to increase internal functionality and a new central glass roof box to enhance natural lighting. Final touches will include new laminated glass designed to meet modern energy and safety standards.

To commemorate the project’s architectural legacy, the University is showcasing original structural elements of the building on site at Castle Meadow Campus.

The extensive works are being delivered in collaboration with Bond Bryan Architects and Arup Consultants, with Base Structures managing the fabric replacement and Novum Structures overseeing the installation of the glass box and roof lights.

Adrian Grocock, Managing Director at G F Tomlinson, said: "The Central Building project is a perfect example of how we combine innovative construction methods with heritage expertise to deliver transformative projects. The roof replacement represents a significant achievement, and we are proud to be playing a key role in extending the life of this iconic structure. Our longstanding working relationship with University of Nottingham, spanning over more than 7 capital projects has allowed us to contribute to the campus's evolution and provide world-class facilities that reflect its reputation for excellence."