York University Heslington Campus Development

University of York, Heslington Campus

Location: Heslington, York, North Yorkshire
Sector: Education
Completion: October 2017
Scope: Groundworks, Reinforced Concrete, Infrastructure, Roads & Sewers, External Works

Overview

Durkan & Sons Ltd delivered the comprehensive groundworks and civil engineering package for a major phase of development at the University of York’s Heslington Campus.

The project involved extensive earthworks, reinforced concrete construction, drainage, utilities, highways and hard landscaping across a live university environment. Careful planning and coordination enabled the works to be completed safely while maintaining access and minimising disruption to students, staff and ongoing campus operations.

The completed infrastructure supports the University’s continued expansion, providing modern access roads, service infrastructure and high-quality external spaces.

Key Deliverables

Groundworks & Earthworks

• Bulk excavation of approximately 26,500m³.
• Site clearance and preparation across approximately 13,700m².
• Formation works, reduced level excavations and profiling.
• Soft spot removal and reinstatement using 6F2.
• Controlled spoil management and off-site disposal.

Foundations & Reinforced Concrete Works

• Construction of reinforced concrete service yard (approximately 1,600m²).
• Concrete foundations and ground beams.
• Slot drainage and reinforced concrete bay construction.
• Concrete foundations for cycle shelters, bin stores and associated structures.

Roads, Drainage & Infrastructure

• Construction of new access roads and pedestrian routes.
• Deep drainage and service infrastructure installation.
• Over 2.5km of ducting for LV, HV, lighting, CCTV, BT, water and gas services.
• Construction of feeder pillar bases, utility chambers and service connections.
• Substation civils including foundations, drainage and associated infrastructure.

External Works & Landscaping

• Marshalls Tegula block paving and Saxon paving installation.
• Kerbing, edgings, disabled parking bays and road markings.
• Construction of a Maccaferri gabion retaining wall.
• Topsoil placement, landscaping and tree protection works.
• Installation of cycle shelters, Sheffield stands and timber bin stores.

Project Outcome

The University of York development was successfully completed, providing high-quality infrastructure to support the continued expansion of one of the UK’s leading universities.

Durkan & Sons delivered the complete groundworks package safely and to programme, combining extensive earthworks, reinforced concrete construction, utility installations and external works within a busy live campus environment.

Looking for an Experienced Groundworks Contractor?

Durkan & Sons Ltd delivers professional groundworks and civil engineering services for education, commercial, infrastructure and public sector projects across Yorkshire and the North of England. Contact our team to discuss your next project.