Geoffrey Pope Building.

Geoffrey Pope in Exeter is receiving an £18million refurbishment that will provide it with a world-leading facility for biosciences which will support the University’s ambitions to become a leading international centre for research and teaching in biosciences. The building is due to be fully completed in 2010.

£5million has already been invested in the Geoffrey Pope building to improve the main teaching lab and a section of the research facilities. The additional investment is being made in line with the University Science Strategy, a policy to invest £80million in science over the next three years.

The completed Geoffrey Pope refurbishment project will provide:

  • fully operational BSL3 research suite
  • 3 high quality research facilities to BSL2 standard
  • 4 specialist laboratories to cater for all chemical, biochemical and analytical needs
  • state-of-the-art aquarium
  • an extended teaching lab
  • improved support facilities to the teaching lab
  • flexible school seminar space
  • an integrated student support office
  • 130 new desk spaces for postgraduates
  • 25 new staff offices
  • improved access to the building
  • a fully refurbished foyer with networked PCs, wi-fi, space to talk and vending facilities

MJN Colston are undertaking the complete Mechanical scopes of works including Drainage, ventilation, Mechanical pipe work services, Building management systems and specialist services to the aquaria, MJN Colston are also undertaking the complete Electrical scope of the works including Containment system including new services risers, Lighting, power, Fire alarm, Security / door access and voice and data system.

The challenge that the whole team will face will be to carry out the construction work whilst maintaining full access to all existing users of the building throughout the project contract.”

Project Team

  • Client - Exeter University
  • Main Contractor - Midas Interiors
  • Architect - Atkins
  • Services Engineers - Peter Brett Associates (Scott Wilson)
  • Quantity Surveyors - EC Harris
  • Services Value - £5.6m