Faye Davies, Managing Director of Burrell Foley Fischer presented the designs for the refurbishment and remodelling of the historic Grade I, II* & II listed buildings at York Guildhall, at the latest York Society of Engineers Lecture. The talk covered the history, design, delivery and future of this amazing building from a client, design team, contractor and future occupier perspective.
York Guildhall forms a large part of York’s history dating from the 15th century, with a prominent position on the River Ouse. The vision for the project is to provide a world-class venue, supporting and nurturing the expansion of York’s vibrant businesses; combining events and exhibition space with state-of-the-art collaboration and co-working facilities in the heart of a historic and creative city, securing a sustainable future for one of the city’s most iconic buildings. Faye, a Specialist Conservation Architect, discussed the development of BFF’s designs for the remodelling of the Guildhall complex, together with its comprehensive refurbishment. She explained how best practice conservation principles are being adopted, whilst incorporating modern services and amenities.
Richard Stephenson, Property Services Commissioning Manager from City of York Council gave an introduction to the event and discussed the delivery of this project from a client perspective.
Arup are the Civil and Structural Engineers for the project and Rick Lee, Principal Structural Engineer, discussed solving the unique structural challenges that this historic building has presented. From solving cracks that you could get your hand in, to sensitive interventions with historic fabric and interfacing with new build elements.
Bart Stevens is director of SGA Consulting who are the environmental consultants and are designing the mechanical and electrical services for the project. He discussed the ways that the carbon footprint of the scheme has been reduced as much as possible. A significant element being that the River Ouse will be used as a source of heating and cooling for the building. He also discussed the many challenges incorporating modern services into the listed buildings.
Rob Henderson, Project Manager for Vinci the main contractor for the project, discussed the delivery aspect of this challenging project. The Guildhall and its associated buildings are trapped between the River Ouse and the buildings fronting Lendal. With limited access from the street, Vinci have had to utilise the river for deliveries including erecting a tower crane from a stabilised platform in the river that was floated up from further downriver. Vinci have also had to carefully select plant and constructions methods to make use of the restricted width alleys that give access to the site.
Professor Kiran Trehan, PVC for Partnerships and Engagement at the University of York discussing the future of the building. The University of York is planning to take a 15 year lease of one of York’s most prestigious historic buildings, creating a City centre hub for business, enterprise and events. The new space will enable the University to bring the support it offers to local business and enterprise into the heart of York, driving inclusive and sustainable growth in the City as it recovers from the pandemic.