Construction of world class research laboratory ready to commence as University of Warwick appoints BAM

The University already has significant research plans for the four-storey £17 million plus development. The building will house a world class microscopy facility and will provide accommodation for the Warwick Centre for Analytical Science which will be a national and international hub for research and training in the analytical sciences. This will further enhance Warwick's international research reputation and play its part in helping the University double its already significant research student numbers and place the University of Warwick among the World's top 50 research institutions by 2015. The University is already listed in the UK's top ten by every UK national newspaper University league table.

Based locally in Balsall Common, BAM will design and construct the 4,795 square metre structure. The firm's achievements include another education building in nearby Birmingham - the Best Public Building in Great Britain, Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College. It has a number of signature projects within Coventry where it has been established for around 75 years, handing-over a new factory to the Alvis Motor Company in 1936.

Richard Dakin, BAM's Director in the Midlands, said: 'Both the University of Warwick and this research project for it are prestigious, so it is clearly excellent news for BAM. It shows how well regarded we are in the Midlands and in the education sector. These will be genuinely world class facilities.'

BAM is now on-site commencing enabling works. It has appointed Colin Lawrence as project manager - Colin Lawrence recently delivered Archbishop Grimshaw School in neighbouring Solihull, which achieved one of the UK's best ever scores for how considerately it was built (39 out of 40 from the independent Considerate Constructors Scheme).

Colin Lawrence said: 'One interesting aspect of the project will be the need for anti-vibration foundations because of the sensitive nature of the equipment in use at the laboratory.' No piling work will be undertaken, because there is a bedrock foundation.

The company says it aims to involve local firms in its supply chain, and estimates that around 150 people will work on the research project which commences in earnest towards the end of March and is due to complete in autumn 2011.

The architects for the project are BMJ; appointed as structural engineers are Arup and Couch Perry Wilkes act as M&E consultants.

Further information: BAM Construct UK Ltd, Mark Slattery, Press and Media Manager, 01442 238415.