News

University buildings affected by storm damage

(11 January 2005)

The recent storms caused some major structural damage to a number of buildings across the University of Durham.

Three of the biggest incidents of structural damage were caused by the gale force winds affecting mainly roofs.

A 14ft high chimney stack collapsed through the roof of student accommodation at St Cuthbert’s Society in South Bailey. This totally destroyed the roof structure of the building, which was empty at the time.Some resident students returning for the start of the new term next week , may have to be temporarily relocated until the roof can be replaced.

On the Science Site off South Road, Durham the Phase Two Biological Sciences Building suffered widespread damage as ridge tiles and flashings were torn. Because of loose debris on the roof access to the buildings and car parks had to be restricted. There was extensive damage to the roofs of the main buildings at the Durham Business School in Mill Hill Lane.

There was storm damage to the roofs of a number buildings, including the School of Education. At St. Aidan’s College the roof of a bungalow used for student accommodation was blown off and cladding was torn from one of the college buildings.

Work is currently under way to replace of the roof of the Music School on Palace Green and because of the danger from loose materials and scaffolding access was prohibited to the surrounding area including, Windy Gap.

Fallen trees along the riverside around the Durham Peninsula blocked access from both Prebends Bridge and Framwellgate Bridge to the Old Fulling Mill which houses the University’s Museum of Archaeology. The high winds also caused fluctuations to the mains electricity supplies to many electrical circuits and gas supplies to buildings across the university. This caused some disruption to research work and heating services.

Direct Works and Grounds staff from the University’s Estates and Buildings Department responded throughout the weekend to calls from all the affected buildings and services. Where necessary buildings and services were made safe and insurers and loss adjusters are now assessing the cost of repairs. Access restrictions are expected to be lifted before the start of term on January 17th.

Mr. Peter Robinson, Director of Estates and Buildings, said : “Our work force responded magnificently to the emergency call-outs and they have been properly thanked for their unstinting efforts by the Vice Chancellor, Sir Kenneth Calman. Thankfully no one was hurt as a result of the damage and we will be working as quickly as possible to complete the repairs.”

Media enquiries to : Tom Fennelly, Public Relations Office, University of Durham, Tel :0191 334 6078 or e-mail : t.p.fennelly@durham.ac.uk