The construction of the Gradel Quadrangles development for New College in Oxford has been celebrated with a traditional topping out ceremony.
Hosted by main contractor Sir Robert McAlpine, the event on July 1 was attended by Lord Mayor James Fry, Chris Gradel, who has provided the core funding for the project, the site team as well as senior representatives from the companies involved in the project, including Miles Young, Warden of New College.
In keeping with Sir Robert McAlpine’s Scottish roots, a piper led the guests to the rooftop level of the building, where the traditional pouring of concrete took place.
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The scheme comprises a three-storey quadrangle of student accommodation, new school buildings, porter’s lodge and landmark 21.5-metre tower.
Its flowing, freeform design suggests a contemporary reimagining of the classic quadrangle model.
It also features a complex limestone and sandstone façade, with each stone curved on both faces.
In support of New College’s commitment to achieving Net Zero Carbon by 2035, the project team sought to deliver savings in embodied and whole life carbon across the board.
As a result, the project has been recognised by the ICE (Institution of Civil Engineers) Carbon Champion programme.
Miles Young, the Warden of New College, said: "The Gradel Quadrangles at New College represent the latest chapter in our 643-year story.
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"Enabled by the generous funding of Chris Gradel and many other donors, we will now be able to house all our undergraduates for their time with us, removing pressure on Oxford’s housing supply.
“At the topping out we can already sense that these new buildings will be an exciting addition to Oxford’s townscape. We are thrilled with the progress made by Sir Robert McAlpine in bringing it to life.”
The Gradel Quadrangles scheme is expected to be completed in September 2023.
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This story was written by Andy Ffrench, he joined the team more than 20 years ago and now covers community news across Oxfordshire.
Get in touch with him by emailing: Andy.ffrench@newsquest.co.uk
Follow him on Twitter @OxMailAndyF
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