New facilities for h-all

Central Hall and the J.B. Morrell Library are set for major refurbishment works over the summer, as part of plans to modernise and improve the ageing Heslington West campus.

Central Hall is the subject of a £655,000 project, as the University finally look to fulfil their promise of a refurbishment and repair programme for the famous spaceship-like, monolithic structure. David Garner, York University’s Press Officer, told Vision that the work will involve “sealing the roof, replacing deteriorating concrete and painting the exterior.”

A scheme to refurbish the interior of the building is still under consideration. As the only large venue on campus, the University can’t afford to keep it out of action for the period of time required for larger-scale plans.

The works should be completed in time for Freshers’ Week, with YUSU hoping to hold the Freshers’ Ball at the venue for the second year running, although University officials only confirmed that the work would take “several months to complete”.

Plans to improve and refurbish Central Hall have been mooted for a number of years, and this is the first time that the plans have come to fruition.

Meanwhile, improvements to the ground floor of the JB Morrell library are already underway. Following the opening of the Harry Fairhurst building and refurbishment of the upper floors of the main building, the ground floor is currently closed ahead of summer refurbishments.

Work to be concluded before students return in October will see 102 new study spaces provided on the ground floor, a new IT study room and 14 single study rooms.

In addition, the next phase of refurbishments will see a major upgrade and expansion of the library cafe, to be completed by February next year, in preparation for 24-hour services from 2012, as worked towards by previous Academic Affairs officers. A new ‘social space’ is also being created.

The introduction of a 24-hour library, as promised by YUSU Academic Affairs officer-elect, Graeme Osborn, will be a relief to many students, particuarly after the disruptions caused by building work during the Easter exam period.

Further improvements to the library this summer will see a new entrance built to the Harry Fairhurst building, although all library services are to be maintained over the summer.

YUSU President Tim Ngwena described the refurbishments as “great”. He told Vision: “The library expansions are soon coming to a close and have introduced a greatly-welcomed study space. The final stage of work taking place over the summer should complete the offering. This finally makes the entrance and ground floor work better for students. This works well considering the new setup.”