£47million work to start at old college
swimming pool will be open to public after Dundee campuses united
Published:
THE transformation of a redundant college building in Dundee will begin next week after years of planning.
Contractors are on site and preparing to start work on the former College of Education campus, on Gardyne Road.
Dundee College has received final confirmation that the £47million funding is in place to complete the consolidation of the Kingsway and Gardyne campuses.
The work, which will begin on Monday, includes partial demolition of parts of the Gardyne facility. A glass and steel atrium will be built to bring natural light into the heart of the 36-year-old building.
The major renovation also includes sale of buildings on Constitution Road, Graham Street and Melrose Terrace.
Dundee College depute principal Grant Ritchie said: “While plans for the Gardyne campus are radical and will transform the old teacher training institution into a modern college fit to host the learners of the future, we want to reassure the public that the sports facilities, swimming pool and theatre will all be retained and will be available as community facilities once the contract is complete. The existing building will be stripped down to its frame and rebuilt to increase the amount of natural light.
“All the internal walls and windows will be replaced and new rain-screen cladding will provide a contemporary finish.
“The interior will be unrecognisable, and new facilities for creative industries, business and management, and social care subjects will all be introduced.”
The main contractor, Bovis Landlease, is expected to be on the site until completion in March 2011.
“This timescale will allow us the opportunity for a smooth transition from the old sites in time for the start of the academic year in August 2011-12,” said Mr Ritchie.
Sports facilities used by 200 students and staff will continue to be available throughout the construction.
