The construction work on the Radcliffe Science Library building and Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory is continuing after some delays during the Covid-19 pandemic. The library is now scheduled to reopen in the summer of 2023.

Worthington wing exterior from courtyard image courtesy of Morgan Sindall)

The completed building will house Reuben College, the Radcliffe Science Library (currently operating from a temporary home in the Vere Harmsworth Library) and the Oxford University Museums Collections, Teaching and Research Centre (CTRC).

The site consists of:

• The Jackson and Worthington wings of the Radcliffe Science Library building (Grade II listed)
• Part of the current Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory
• A two-storey basement area

Aerial view of the site (image courtesy of Morgan Sindall)

The works in process involve:

• Enabling works, including the removal of asbestos
• Refurbishment of internal spaces to create flexible and modern library facilities in support of science and medicine in Oxford
• External landscaping including the reinstatement of lawn area and dinosaur footprints outside the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.
• Waterproofing of the two-storey basement area

Morgan Sindall Construction & Infrastructure Ltd are the Principal Contractor for the works.

Images of the Radcliffe Science Library before work commenced:

Images of work in progress (courtesy of Morgan Sindall):

UPDATE: More images of work in progress (courtesy of Morgan Sindall) – added 27 June 2022: