Manchester Metropolitan University Library Relocation. This project involved converting study spaces into a temporary library facility to accommodate students during the construction of a new library. Working with Cassidy & Ashton architects and Greenmount contractors, we delivered a complete mechanical and electrical design for this £1m project in Manchester. The building presented significant challenges, including asbestos management, that required careful planning and close coordination with contractors.
CLIENT: Manchester Metropolitan University
VALUE: £1m
LOCATION: Manchester
SERVICES: Mechanical & Electrical Design
CLIENT OBJECTIVES
Manchester Metropolitan University needed to create a temporary home for its library services while constructing a new permanent facility. The project required converting existing study spaces into a functional library environment that would serve both the library faculty team and provide vibrant, accessible spaces for students. The university partnered with Cassidy & Ashton architects and Greenmount contractors, bringing PSA on board to handle the complex mechanical and electrical aspects of the transformation. Our brief was to ensure that the temporary facility would maintain the quality of services expected by students and staff despite its interim nature.
OUR SOLUTION
We delivered comprehensive mechanical and electrical design services tailored to the unique requirements of this temporary library facility. The project presented significant challenges, particularly the presence of asbestos, which required meticulous planning of service routes throughout the building. Our design approach balanced immediate needs with practical considerations, ensuring systems were robust yet appropriate for a temporary installation.
- Full heating, ventilation and air conditioning
- Energy-efficient lighting systems fit for library environments
- Power distribution to support extensive computer workstations
- Data infrastructure to handle library management systems
- Building control systems for efficient operation
Throughout the construction phase, our team remained actively involved on site, working closely with contractors to address challenges as they arose and ensure seamless coordination between architectural plans and M&E implementation.
THE OUTCOME
The completed temporary library provides students with a welcoming and functional space while the new permanent library is being constructed. The university expressed high satisfaction with our work, particularly noting how we managed the technical challenges inherent in the building conversion. The successful delivery of appropriate M&E systems has ensured that library services continue uninterrupted, maintaining the university’s educational offerings during this transition period.
