Lovaine Hall & Flats
Project Overview
MGL Demolition demolished the former student accommodation Lovaine Hall and Flats to make way for the Centre for Health and Social Equity (CHASE) at Northumbria University.
CHASE will unite academics working on health, social care, education, wellbeing and equity issues across the University’s City and Coach Lane Campuses into one central base in the heart of Newcastle. It aims to develop and harness the University’s research, education, and knowledge exchange expertise to help meet the health and social needs of multiple stakeholders and communities in the city, region and beyond, as well as enhance the University’s capacity to continue contributing to developing the healthcare workforce of the future.
Challenges
Due to the site’s challenging city centre location, effective stakeholder management was crucial to the project’s success. Furthermore, the linked four-storey buildings ran parallel to Newcastle Central Motorway. We worked closely with Highways England to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards and minimise traffic disruption.
Student and staff safety was also paramount when working in a live university campus environment. The nearby Cassie Building remained operational throughout the project. Communication and collaboration were key throughout the project. Before work commenced, a site walkaround was undertaken, and we maintained open dialogue and coordination to facilitate smooth operations and minimise risks. All deliveries and collections were coordinated with the university’s security department.
Sustainability and Social Value
We minimised waste and promoted a circular economy by prioritising on-site stone processing. Recycled materials were used to form the piling mat, contributing to a more sustainable project.
This scheme also provided a valuable learning opportunity for one of our demolition apprentices. Working alongside experienced professionals, the apprentice gained hands-on experience with safe demolition practices and industry techniques. To further enhance the project’s impact, the team supported the university through community engagement initiatives and dedicated time to volunteering activities; we also made charitable donations and worked to foster relationships within the community.
Summary
The client was impressed with how the team undertook the work safely and with sustainability in mind. Following the completion of the demolition, the campus director provided positive feedback.
We are proud to have enabled the largest transformational project of Northumbria University’s current strategy.
