The Cockcroft Lecture Theatre has reopened for staff and students after the first phase of improvement works was completed over the summer. The space has been upgraded with a new entrance, improved accessibility, and updated furnishings among other changes. Thanks to a busy period of building work over the long vacation teaching recommenced in the lecture theatre at the start of Michaelmas Term.
The Programme Board for Education Space, which is responsible for quality and standards in education space at the University, decided to carry out the works in order to improve accessibility around the building, as well to refresh the overall look and feel of the space.
Inside the Cockcroft building, a brand-new ground floor entrance leads into a new lobby which provides touchdown areas, a new accessible toilet, a repositioned and refurbished prep room and flat floor access into the lecture theatre. Within the lecture theatre, benching, seating, and panelling has been repaired and redecorated, with timber salvaged for reuse. Improvements to soft furnishings, new blinds, and additional power sockets have also enhanced the feel and functionality of the space. A wheelchair recess has been created in the lecture theatre allowing for the removal of the platform lift. The toilets on the first and second floors have also been stripped back and refurbished. Outside, the new entrance door is enhanced by updated light fittings and work to improve the appearance of the front elevation.
The Cockcroft Lecture Theatre was originally built in 1936, and is normally used throughout the day, Monday to Saturday, during term time. The decision to carry out improvement works in two phases has prevented disruption to teaching. Now that the first phase is complete, teaching will continue throughout the year before the second phase begins in June, 2023. The second phase will include the replacement of the lecture theatre ceiling, as well as installation of new lighting and audio-visual infrastructure.