Preserving a landmark creative campus for future generations

Client: Manchester Metropolitan University

Conlon Construction delivered the refurbishment of the Grade II listed Grosvenor West Building at Manchester Metropolitan University, safeguarding one of the institution’s most important academic and cultural assets.

Home to the Manchester School of Art and the renowned Holden Gallery, the building plays a central role in the University’s creative community. The project was designed to enhance the building’s performance, modernise key infrastructure and protect its historic fabric for the future.

The Challenge

The Grosvenor West Building is a significant heritage asset located within a busy city-centre campus. The refurbishment required extensive upgrades to the building’s infrastructure while preserving its architectural character and minimising disruption to students, staff and academic activities.

To facilitate the works, a carefully managed decant strategy was required, ensuring teaching, learning and operational activities could continue throughout the project.

Our Solution

Conlon delivered a comprehensive programme of refurbishment and restoration works, including:

• Repairs and refurbishment to the external building envelope
• Upgrades to mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems
• Internal refurbishment and redecoration throughout
• Modernisation of building services infrastructure
• Refurbishment of temporary decant accommodation
• Coordination of phased relocations to alternative university facilities
• Sensitive restoration works within a Grade II listed environment

The project required close collaboration with the University and wider stakeholders to ensure the building’s heritage significance was respected while delivering modern functionality.

The Outcome

The completed refurbishment has secured the long-term future of one of Manchester Metropolitan University’s most important academic buildings, creating an improved environment for students, staff and visitors alike.

By combining sensitive conservation with modern infrastructure upgrades, the project has enhanced building performance, improved reliability and protected a key part of the University’s creative heritage.

Today, the Grosvenor West Building continues to support teaching, learning, exhibitions and creative practice, ensuring it remains at the heart of Manchester Metropolitan University’s artistic and cultural community for years to come.