NI contractor Henry Brothers Construction has completed a £12 million refurbishment project for The University of Manchester.

The scheme involved the complete refurbishment of floors four and five of the Chemistry Building, along with work to the level eight plantroom, roof and external ductwork and services.

The project involved a comprehensive reorganisation of the two floors, resulting in a versatile laboratory space with new fume cupboards and fixed benching. Additionally, it incorporated dedicated write-up spaces with glazed screens, allowing visibility throughout the lab, alongside modern offices and inviting break-out areas.

One of the key features of the project was the external ventilation ducts running up the side of the building which feed into floors four and five (and the other floors in future refurbishment phases).

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The ducts were connected to the existing fans in the 1960s-built, seven-storey building, which houses one of the largest Chemistry departments in the UK.

Managing Director of Henry Brothers Construction Ian Taylor said: "We were delighted to have been appointed on our first contract at The University of Manchester, which represented an expansion for Henry Brothers into the North West.

"The result of this refurbishment scheme on floors four and five of the Chemistry Building, along with work to the level eight plantroom and services, is first class.

"Researchers will now be working in and enjoying modern laboratories, offices, and break-out areas. These upgraded new facilities give researchers access to some of the most up-to-date amenities, helping the University to retain its position as one of the best places to study Chemistry."

Procured through the Crown Commercial Services Framework, The University of Manchester contract marked Henry Brothers’ expansion into the North West last year following sustained growth across the Midlands.

The design team for the refurb included Gardiner and Theobold as NEC project manager, RLB as quantity surveyor, Halliday Meecham Architects, structural engineers Curtins and EDPI for M&E services, with sub-contractors William Bailey and Electract providing mechanical and electrical services for Henry Brothers.