Teaching spaces refurbishments planned for summer 2026

This year, teams from Estates, the Information Services Division (ISD), and Timetabling Services will collaborate again, this time to refurbish all centrally bookable rooms in the Medical Sciences and Anatomy Building, the Christopher Ingold Building, and 11 rooms in Foster Court.

Due to the scale of the project, work will begin on 30 March and continue through to mid-September, during which time teaching activity is lower. The programme has been planned carefully to minimise disruption to Open Days, exams and conferences, and there have been engagement sessions with colleagues and building users throughout the planning process.

During stakeholder discussions, it was agreed that concentrating efforts on three key buildings would help reduce disruption and allow the teams to deliver the programme more efficiently. While some noise disruption must be expected, contractors will make every effort to keep this to a minimum. 

Creating more inclusive and accessible spaces

A core priority of the rolling programme is improving inclusivity and accessibility across teaching environments, building on disabled and neurodivergent staff and student feedback. This includes provision of adjustable-height desks, silent wall clocks, introducing biophilic design elements wherever possible and opting for neutral colour palettes with limited use of patterns. These choices help create environments that feel comfortable for all users.

In addition, Estates will install more power sockets in teaching spaces to support the use of laptops and personal devices in teaching and learning.

“Steph Glen, Head of Teaching Space Operations, said: “We’re excited to continue the Teaching Spaces Rolling Refurbishment Programme for the fourth summer. We have identified teaching spaces that have a high footfall, and we believe that updating these rooms will greatly enhance the user experience for students and staff.”

“Sheila Egan, AV Design Principal, said: “ISD’s collaboration with Estates, project officers, and contractors enables holistic room upgrades where space, technology, and pedagogy interoperate supportively. By taking a whole-building approach, we create a cohesive campus with consistent, reliable teaching spaces. This method minimises disruption and maximises the impact of improvements and enhancements.”

Building on a successful programme

The Teaching Spaces Refurbishment Programme continues to receive highly positive feedback from staff and students. Last year’s works were completed on time, with refreshed spaces proving popular. Read about last year's works. 

““It’s a stunning theatre with the renovations!” Sarah Hunt, Deputy Estates and Operations Manager, School of Pharmacy (on the John Hanbury Lecture Theatre).

“That looks great! So much better than before!” Wendy Hawkes, Timetabling Manager, on refurbished rooms at Endsleigh Gardens.