Tricky replacement of 'pioneering' roof is complete at last

LISTED STATUS OF STRUCTURE POSED UNUSUAL CHALLENGES

- By OSCAR FISHER

THE removal and replacement of a Grade II-listed roof at a city university campus has been described as a “unique” and “intricate” task by developers after its completion.

As part of a refurbishment to extend its life, the original PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) roof at the University of Nottingham's Castle Meadow Campus has been replaced with a modern tensile structure, the latest generation of PVDF fabrics.

Originally designed and installed in 1994 by Hopkins Architects and Arup, the roof is described as one of the most complicated roof structures in Europe.

Prior to Midlands contractor GF Tomlinson starting work, the building was given Grade II-listed status.

At 30 years old is one of the youngest buildings to achieve the honour.

This presented additional challenges for the contractors to ensure heritage requirements were met, while still meeting the original refurbishment needs.