College of Science & Engineering

 by Clarke Elsby - Building Surveyor (Facilities Management)

The University of Glasgow Estates Directorate is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible environment for all students, staff and visitors. As part of this commitment, we are undertaking several ongoing efforts to improve accessibility across our campus.

One of these efforts is the UofG Estates Directorates partnership with CBRE, a leading global commercial real estate services firm. CBRE has been appointed as the University's new framework contractor for all estates and facilities management services. This partnership will assist the Estates Directorate in accelerating its accessibility improvement programme, with CBRE providing expertise and support in a number of areas, including:

• Identifying and removing barriers to accessibility: CBRE will work with the University to identify and remove barriers to accessibility across the campus, including physical barriers such as steps and narrow doorways, as well as non-physical barriers such as poor signage and communication.
• Implementing accessible design principles: CBRE will help the University to implement accessible design principles in all new and refurbished buildings and facilities. This will ensure that all members of the community can use and enjoy the University's spaces safely and independently.
• Providing support and designs from specialist architects: CBRE will obtain architectural technical drawings for more complex access issues and, utilise sub-contractors for completing works accurately and to a high standard

In addition to its partnership with CBRE, the Estates Directorate is also undertaking a number of other initiatives to improve accessibility, including:

• Increasing/upgrading accessible toilets: The Estates Directorate is increasing the number of accessible toilets across the campus. This includes installing new accessible toilets and converting existing toilets to make them more accessible and user-friendly.
• Making improvements to existing entrances/buildings: The Estates Directorate is making improvements to existing entrances and buildings to make them more accessible. This includes installing ramps, widening doorways, and improving signage.
• Proceeding with a £5 million improvement to the Kelvin Building: The Estates Directorate is proceeding with a £5 million improvement to the Kelvin Building. This includes installing a number of new lifts and even a bridge into the building to reduce travel time and overall building accessibility.

The University's commitment to improving accessibility is also reflected in its future plans. In the coming years, the University plans to:

• Continue to invest in accessibility improvements: The University plans to continue to invest in accessibility improvements across the campus, with a focus on removing barriers and implementing accessible design principles.
• Raise awareness of accessibility issues: The University plans to raise awareness of accessibility issues among staff, students and users. This will help to create a more inclusive and supportive community for all.
• Work with partners to improve accessibility: The University plans to work with partners such as CBRE and other universities to improve accessibility across the sector.

The UofG Estates Directorate’s ongoing efforts to improve accessibility are a positive step forward for the University community. By removing barriers, implementing accessible design principles, and raising awareness of accessibility issues, the University is creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

Artist's vision of progress: the upcoming bridge for the Kelvin Building is a proud step in our commitment to accessibility and a glimpse into the broader transformation of our listed and historic structures.

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First published: 24 May 2023