Robertson Construction North East has completed a multi-million-pound overhaul of Durham University’s Department of Chemistry, extending the life of the 1950s building and significantly upgrading its research and teaching facilities.

Delivered under a design-and-build contract over two years, the scheme was carefully phased, with all three floors stripped back and renewed in sequence so staff and students could continue using the building throughout.

The programme provided upgraded teaching rooms, 12 laboratories, offices, research spaces, toilets and supporting areas. It also brought comprehensive mechanical, electrical and plumbing enhancements to cut maintenance and reduce long-term operational costs.

Each laboratory now includes new fume cupboards with dedicated extraction, heating, specialist gas services, bespoke furniture and advanced testing equipment, supporting the University’s position as one of the UK’s leading chemistry departments.

Close collaboration with the University's Estates team, students and stakeholders shaped the delivery plan to minimise disruption to teaching and research. Spaces were decanted and safely reoccupied in stages, construction zones were fully segregated with sealed hoardings to prevent dust and debris reaching occupied areas, and demolition was scheduled outside core hours to limit noise.

-- Advertisement --

A high-precision 3D digital model of the entire block, produced via laser scanning and commissioned by Robertson, underpinned detailed coordination and quality control, ensuring the on-site works precisely matched the planned design.

In support of sustainability goals and lower running costs, the project introduced energy‑efficient lighting and new windows alongside wider envelope improvements. Re-roofing included replacement membranes and new insulation to improve thermal performance.

Robertson Engineering Services delivered the full M&E installations, including ventilation and air-conditioning systems, specialist gas supplies, wash-down facilities, refrigerant pipework and drainage. Electrical works covered general and emergency lighting, CCTV and laboratory-specific alarm systems.

Neil Kennedy, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction North East, commented: "This was a prime opportunity to showcase our expertise in working within live environments. Drawing on our experience of working on campus, we understood how best to deliver this project partnering closely with the University to ensure these spaces met the needs of its users. Consistent engagement with staff and students throughout helped create high-quality, flexible spaces tailored to the department’s teaching and operational requirements. We will continue to work closely with Durham University to further assist in optimising its estate."

The chemistry refurbishment is Robertson's third major project for Durham University, following the Confluence Building restoration in 2022 and the recent accommodation refurbishment at Trevelyan College.