University library improvements now 16 months overdue

Original phase two finish date of January 2016

A £27 million improvement of the University of Kent’s main library is running 16 months behind schedule, it has emerged.

The university is extending and restoring the Templeman Library on the Canterbury campus in one of the most important projects it has ever undertaken.

The first phase of the six-year project was finished in 2015, but the second – due to be complete in January 2016 – is now expected to be finished in April.

University spokesman Sandy Fleming said: “The timeline has been extended since the project began but this is a reflection of the complex nature of this work, which combines an innovative new-build with refurbishment of an iconic 1960s building.

“At no point has the library closed and full access to all university resources has been maintained throughout for the 9,000 users every day.”

The library, which sits at the centre of the university campus and overlooks the city below, will increase in size by 53,000 sq ft.

Added to it are eight seminar rooms and a 260-seat lecture theatre to provide conferencing and teaching space. It houses a collection of one million items.

The university envisages a third phase to the project, which will take the total number of study spaces across its four wings to 1,812.

It is currently finalising funding for the final phase.

Ms Fleming added: “We are committed to phase three and detailed designs have been completed. What remains are the final scheduling and financial approvals which are subject to a tender exercise – the usual process for projects of this size.

“The refurbishment of the Templeman Library is one of the most significant building projects, investing in improved facilities for research and students at the heart of the University of Kent’s Canterbury campus.”