It's been a busy term break here at Corpus, with works ongoing on several fronts. Second Bursar Simon Shinkfield gives an update.

H Staircase Meeting Rooms
The refurbishment of the Harley Mason Room, the Law Room and the Cambridge Room is now complete, and the rooms are back in operation for our summer conference guests and outreach programmes. The works have included new carpet, full redecoration, upgraded lighting, and the removal of the previous wall trunking, all of which has helped create a much cleaner and fresher appearance. The adjacent bathrooms have also been renewed, with modern sanitaryware and a much-improved overall finish.

D Staircase Plastering Works
This remains a substantial project, though the recent warmer weather has been of real benefit in helping the second round of plastering to dry out. A safe asbestos removal has now been completed, with the exclusion zone having been set up and subsequently removed. The images from within the containment tunnels show the remarkable extent of sealing and protection required behind the façade. The final coat of plaster is due to be applied in the coming weeks.

B Staircase Plastering Works
We moved quickly to take advantage of last-minute contractor availability and commence these works. The existing plaster has now been stripped off, and the first coat has been completed, with the final coat/s and decoration to follow. One of the more interesting discoveries has been that the walls appear originally to have been lath and plaster many decades ago [small remnants of the original laths still visible] before later being 'modernised'. In some areas, the plaster was up to 55mm thick, representing a significant weight. It has likely endured as long as it has only because of the continuous movement of air through the building. The replacement plaster will be lighter and leaner, which is a much more appropriate option.

JCR Plant Room
The JCR plant room remains a flurry of activity, with old pipework being removed and new services installed. It is one of those projects whose importance is perhaps not immediately visible day to day, but which is essential to the reliable functioning of the College’s infrastructure.

Crystal Palace Bathrooms
Phase 1 of this project is nearing completion, with the first two bathrooms due back into operation by the end of April 2026. Phase 2 will commence shortly thereafter, with the programme arranged so that the noisiest elements of the work are completed before students return.

New Court Water Mains Pipework
Works are progressing well and moving quickly to repair the deteriorated water mains around New Court. The works are undoubtedly invasive, but the need for them is clear in terms of securing the resilience of this part of the College’s infrastructure. (More photos of the pipework below).

Thanks to all on site for your patience and understanding as we continue to make significant inroads into the renewal of the College’s estate.