The 6,000m2, six storey extension houses new lecture theatres, auditoriums, teaching rooms and display areas. An internal glazed atrium extends through the building and features a curved auditorium, which meant that the roof also had to be curved. A flat Trocal roof was used with roof decking, and a new plant room was built on the upper level of the structure.
The most impressive feature of the building is the 28 meter long, steel framed, glazed bridge. This provides a permanent walkway between the campus' two buildings which are separated by the busy main street.
This was a particularly demanding project, due to the fact that the University had to remain fully operational during the construction of the new extension. During the 78 week programme, noise levels had to be restricted and health & safety practices were closely monitored to ensure the safety of all staff & students who required access to the existing building.
