University of Cumbria, Barrow

We were appointed to deliver Civil and Structural Engineering services for the University of Cumbria’s new Barrow Campus teaching hub, a landmark two storey facility located adjacent to active dock infrastructure and a marine environment.

The project supports the University’s ambition to expand high quality higher education provision in Barrow-in-Furness, closely aligned with local industry and skills development. Our team developed a robust and efficient structural and drainage strategy that responded to challenging ground conditions, exposure to saline air and the need for flexible, open plan teaching spaces.

Working collaboratively with the wider design team, we progressed the design through RIBA Stage 3 and later supported delivery through novation at Stages 5 and 6. By combining technical rigour with a practical understanding of buildability and risk, we helped create a resilient, future ready education building that will serve students, staff and the wider community for years to come.

A steel framed superstructure with composite floors was developed to achieve long spans while minimising weight, supported on piled foundations informed by local experience and site investigation. Drainage followed SuDS principles, with attenuation via permeable paving, subbase storage and landscaped basins discharging to Buccleuch Dock at a controlled rate, while foul drainage used a phased pumped system to maintain service continuity. Throughout, the design prioritised durability, coordination and buildability, ensuring a robust and efficient solution aligned with the programme.