World-class science laboratories that will benefit students on courses including geography, geology, forensic science and astrophysics, have been successfully constructed at Keele University; with the works led by Midlands contractor G F Tomlinson.

Work started on the highly-anticipated Central Science Laboratories (CSL) development in August 2017 – bringing a new 5,300 sq m four storey building to the University campus that boasts a range of features that will further the University’s work in ground-breaking research and innovation.

The £13million construction was awarded to G F Tomlinson as part of the University’s £42million overall investment into its Faculty of Natural Sciences’ facilities, and will be occupied by students studying on varying courses.

Inside the CSL building are new chemistry and pharmacy wet laboratories and flexible dry laboratories for courses in geography, geology, environment, forensic science and life sciences; laboratories for physics and astrophysics; and IT labs for subjects including mathematics and computer science.

There are also breakout social learning spaces, open plan teaching and research areas, and IT rooms – with the building aiming to bring together practical teaching and group working among undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as those studying on a Foundation Year.

The new development links to the Lennard Jones Building next to the Dorothy Hodgkin Building. It was delivered by G F Tomlinson using Building Information Modelling (BIM) Level 2 – an enhancing design co-ordination process used for creating and managing digital design information across the entire project from start to finish, helping to deliver increased productivity and efficiency.

It marks the latest development by G F Tomlinson within the higher education sector; with the company boasting a vast portfolio of university projects across the Midlands and further afield.

Andy Sewards, managing director of G F Tomlinson, said:

“We are very pleased that works have now completed on the Central Science Laboratories at Keele University – further enhancing the establishment’s reputation and improving the learning experiences of its students.

“There is already excitement for the building to open, and we are positive it will vastly benefit the innovative research that already takes place at the University. Here at G F Tomlinson, we regularly complete high-quality developments across a range of sectors, and this project signals yet another successful scheme within our higher education portfolio.”

Professor Jonathan Wastling, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences, said:

“These new facilities will provide excellent learning spaces and state-of-the-art equipment for our students, giving them access to some of the best laboratories and science teaching environments in the country.

“I’m delighted that the University will benefit from the transformational teaching spaces, especially during our 70th anniversary year, cementing Keele's commitment to collaborative and interdisciplinary working. The new landmark development will facilitate practical classes and student learning, as well as allowing the University to further develop its world-class research.”