UNIVERSITY LEARNING ENVIRONMENT &  ACCESSIBILITY UPGRADE

The University of Aberdeen’s Zoology Department is one of the institution’s most historic academic centres, with origins dating back to the 1840s under the leadership of William MacGillivray. Today, it forms part of the School of Biological Sciences and is home to the renowned Zoology Museum. The department has played a significant role in scientific advancement, including establishing Britain’s first bird‑ringing scheme in 1909—an initiative that transformed the study of avian migration and conservation.

As part of CBES’s ongoing framework partnership with the University, our team was appointed to deliver essential upgrades to the department’s teaching laboratories and improve accessibility within the building.

Project Aim
The primary objective was to modernise existing teaching laboratories and enhance accessibility through the installation of a new disabled access ramp. The works needed to be delivered within a live academic environment while maintaining the building’s operational continuity.

Scope of Works
CBES Construction Contracts Manager Gerry O’Hagan and Site Manager Wayne Innes led the project, overseeing a comprehensive package of refurbishment and M&E upgrades, including:

• Removal of existing fixtures, fittings, and outdated electrical and mechanical services across teaching labs, small offices, and circulation areas.
• Installation of new partitions, windows, doors, ironmongery, floor coverings, and full decoration throughout.
• Delivery of upgraded electrical and mechanical systems to support modern teaching and research needs.
• Construction of a new disabled access ramp to improve inclusivity and meet accessibility standards.
  
  

Innovative Solutions
Working within a historic building presented several challenges, particularly the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) within existing floor coverings. The client’s budget did not allow for full asbestos removal, so CBES proposed an alternative solution:

Encapsulation and recovery of the existing flooring, allowing works to proceed safely without disturbing ACMs and avoiding additional cost.

In addition, our team reviewed the original lighting design and recommended a more cost‑effective specification that still met performance requirements—delivering value without compromising quality.

Working in a Live Environment
The Zoology Department remained operational throughout the project. To minimise disruption:

Segregated work zones were established.

Clear signage and communication protocols were implemented to ensure staff, students, and visitors were aware of ongoing works. This approach ensured safety, reduced noise impact, and maintained smooth day‑to‑day departmental activity.

Going Above and Beyond
CBES provided a complete, integrated service from project inception to completion. The client benefited from a single point of contact, streamlined co-ordination, and proactive site management. Feedback from the University highlighted their satisfaction with both the quality of our work and the professionalism of the CBES team.

Environmental Considerations
Sustainability was embedded into the project delivery:

• Solar‑powered welfare facilities were used to reduce energy consumption.
• All waste materials were carefully segregated for recycling, supporting the University’s environmental commitments.

Project Outcome
The refurbishment was completed successfully, on time, and to the full satisfaction of the University of Aberdeen. The upgraded laboratories and improved accessibility now provide a modern, functional, and inclusive environment for teaching, research, and public engagement.