MMU Library Relocation, John Dalton East
Cassidy + Ashton was appointed via direct award as Lead Designer, Architect, and Town Planner to deliver a temporary decant solution for Manchester Metropolitan University’s library
The project was a high-stakes “critical programme” delivered from inception to completion in just 7 months, meeting both a strict deadline and a limited budget
Overcoming Complexity
Working within the fabric of a 1974 building presented a series of complex technical hurdles that required expert management:
Technical Constraints: We addressed significant challenges including asbestos management, structural loading for library collections, and the integration of modern active and passive fire measures
Legacy Systems: Our team overhauled existing ventilation strategies and rationalized decades of ad-hoc refurbishments to create a cohesive, safe environment
Stakeholder Integration: We conducted extensive engagement across multiple university workstreams, including IT, Special Collections, and Estates, to ensure the design met diverse operational needs
Impact & Recognition
The project has been hailed as a “tremendous effort” and a total transformation
Award-Winning Excellence: The project won the University Citizenship Award, a prestigious internal honour celebrating those who deliver incredible outcomes beyond expectations
Student Experience: Delivered on time to ensure a positive, seamless transition for the student body at one of the UK’s most popular universities
‘The end result has surpassed my expectations of what we could achieve in JDE and the time (and budget!) available. I can’t wait to open the doors on Monday and welcome in the University community’
Rachel Beckett, Director of Library and Cultural Services, MMU
‘The transformation of this space from a science building over the summer period has taken tremendous effort. Well done to everybody involved both from the University, the consultant team and Greenmount Projects’
Alison Fazakerley – Assistant Director Campus Development | Manchester Metropolitan University | LinkedIN
What we did
- Strategic Lead & Architecture: Developed a brief that maximized the existing building footprint to accommodate inclusive study spaces, IT facilities, and specialised reference material.
- Town Planning: Secured necessary approvals for a revitalised entrance and a new external canopy design off Oxford Road.
- Technical Design: Reviewed building legacy and survey information to provide a seamless transition for the library's physical and digital collections.
- Delivery Management: Oversaw the transformation from a cellular science building to an open, modern learning environment within a single summer period.
Thank you
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