The major facelift scheme will see external improvements to The Gisbert Kapp building - home to the University’s School of Electronic, Electrical and Computer Engineering - and to the adjacent School of Health and Population Sciencesat 52 Pritchatts Road.

As part of the £5.75 million project, Clegg Construction will replace existing exteriors with insulated terracotta cladding and coloured panels. The work will also see the installation of new windows, the construction of a new entrance canopy and car park repairs.

The refurbishment is being carried out in four stages in partnership with consultants ARCADIS, Birmingham-based Associated Architects, construction and property consultants, RLF together with engineering advisers Arup and Couch Perry & Wilkes.

Over recent years, Clegg Construction has completed a wide range of both new build and refurbishment projects for the higher education sector and Managing Director, Simon Blackburn, said the firm was delighted to be working with the University of Birmingham.

“The University is one of the country’s leading academic institutions and both the School of Electronic, Electrical and Computer Engineering and the School of Health and Population Sciences are internationally recognised for their research. We are very proud to be working alongside them,” he explained.

“This is a complex project because the buildings will remain in use whilst our work continues. When complete, the scheme will significantly enhance the northern gateway to the University Campus.”

Added Kevin Small of the University of Birmingham: “Clegg Construction was selected on its ability to undertake the work while minimising disruption to the users; so far no teaching time has been lost because of the project. The appearance of the buildings will be transformed by the refurbishment and the project will also help the University meet its carbon reduction targets.”