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BSRC, St Andrews

The Biomedical Science Research Complex is a world-class research facility bringing together scientists from Biology, Chemistry, Medicine and Physics engaged in research into infection and immunity.

“What is so exciting is that the building makes no compromise in usability for the scientists, whilst delivering this outstanding environmental performance.”.
Dr John Smith, Science Buildings Manager, University of St Andrews

This new research centre is 4 storey building that connects to the adjacent existing Purdie building at every level and a glazed access bridge to the Research Centre on Level 2. The building is highly serviced and all major plant equipment will be housed on the roof. A new landscaped external area has been created mainly to the north, south and east and a new waste station constructed within the existing Purdie courtyard. Refurbishment to areas within Level 1 of the Purdie Building provided laboratory areas, writing rooms and offices.

Summary of the works included asbestos removal, full M&E strip out, live service break in, soft demolition, new floor screed, new partitions, external windows and the installation of new laboratory furniture and equipment all of which were carried out whilst maintaining operational facilities on the upper floor carrying out these works in such a manner as to ensure the continued efficient running of the Purdie Building as well as the other University buildings within the campus.

The Biomedical Sciences Research Complex Annexe achieved a score of 87.66% under BREEAM, making it the first building in Scotland and the first laboratory in the UK to be rated BREEAM ‘Outstanding’.

The building incorporates high frequency lights, low flow showers and taps and an efficient combined heat and power system. The savings achieved through the sustainable design, construction and on-going operation of the facility will be diverted to support the centre’s vital research.

Through close collaboration with our project partners, the complex achieved an exemplary BREEAM credit for waste. Less than 4.7 tonnes of waste was generated per 100m2 of gross internal floor area, with more than 90% of the construction waste diverted from landfill.

We also worked with our waste contractor William Tracey to identify packaging which could be recycled, and took part in a waste to energy trial with the remaining mixed waste which couldn’t be recycled.