An extension to Lancaster University's Sports Centre, doubling the capacity of indoor sports, has just been completed.
A new 1,347m2 hall comprises full-size sports courts and equipment including a basketball court, eight badminton courts and retractable seating for more than 500 people.
The project was completed just six weeks later than planned with contractors Conlon Construction taking a break in construction, because of the Coronavirus pandemic, to implement important protective measures.
Senior members of the project team met with Lancaster University's Vice-Chancellor Professor Andy Schofield last week to mark the completion of the project.
Professor Schofield said: "The project has been a great success despite the set-backs brought about by COVID-19.
"The building will be a real asset to the University, providing a great setting for sport but also, considering the current pressure on teaching space due to the pandemic, much-needed space to support teaching and exams."
He praised Conlon Construction and the project team who, he added, had shown real determination to get the job done in unprecedented times.
The new sports hall is Sports England compliant - suitable for sports such as volleyball, netball, basketball and futsal at competition level.
The hall marks the completion of a two-phase plan to expand the University's Sports Centre having extended the building with a brand-new Strength and Conditioning Room and Human Performance Laboratory in February 2019.
The University's Director of Estates, Facilities and Commercial Services Andrew Burgess said: "The fantastic facilities here are always in high demand from students, staff and the local community too.
"The additional Sports Hall will give us twice as much capacity. All the staff here are really excited to get the Sports Centre opened as soon as possible and can't wait for people to see the new courts."
When appointed, the main contractor Conlon Construction committed to Lancaster City Council's Employment & Skills Plan (ESP), promising to provide opportunities for young people in the local area for training and apprenticeships.
To satisfy the pledge, the University worked closely with Conlon Construction to meet the Council's conditions, in many cases exceeding targets.
