Work under way to transform Byrom Street

The university has begun work on a series of major projects to continue the transformation of our Byrom Street site for the benefit of students and staff.

Over the summer months, the Estates and Facilities Management team will deliver three key projects in the James Parsons Building, which will significantly improve our facilities and enhance the experience of students and staff on campus.

Student zone

We are creating a new, high quality student zone on the ground floor next to the main entrance. Designed in collaboration with the faculties, Student Futures and Student Advice and Wellbeing, it will bring together a range of key student-facing services in one space, as well as space for students to undertake collaborative learning.

Staff lounge

We are transforming the old coffee shop on the first floor of the tower into a brand-new staff lounge. The new facilities will include a break-out area, self-service kitchenette and tea/coffee-making facilities.

Pharmacy project phase 2

Following the successful completion of our new and refurbished simulation suites and study space last year, we are beginning the second phase of enhancements to our School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences provision. These new developments include the relocation of an enhanced product design workshop into a new makers space for the School of Engineering. In turn, this will allow us to create an additional new simulation suite. The project will also include new furniture and AV/IT equipment.

Signage and wayfinding

In addition to the three projects outlined above, work is also taking place to upgrade signage and wayfinding at Byrom Street and across the whole LJMU estate.

'Meeting the requirements of our students and staff'

Liz Gatheral, Director of Estates Development and Campus Services, said: “We are continually working to make sure we are providing the best possible facilities for our students and staff. These projects at James Parsons Building represent a significant investment by the university into one of the busiest sites within our estate.

“The developments will deliver greatly enhanced facilities for teaching, learning and research as well as providing our students with easy access to a wide range of key services, from employability and skills to advice and wellbeing.

“We have worked closely with our schools in Byrom Street to ensure the new facilities meet the requirements of our staff and students and enable them to have the best possible experience on campus.”

The works are scheduled to be completed by the start of the 2024/25 academic year.

Thank you to everybody who uses the buildings for your patience and cooperation while the works are carried out. We will send out regular progress updates to staff based in Byrom Street through your programme/service area.