Aston University Woodcock Sports Centre

Working with repeat client Aston University, Speller Metcalfe was contracted to construct Phase 2 of the major refurbishment of the Sir Doug Ellis Woodcock Sports Centre.

The first phase incorporated a new two-storey studio building, refurbished sports hall and swimming pool, and a new fitness suite, sauna, steam room and changing rooms. For Phase 2 we extended the existing Grade II listed building to provide a new multi-purpose sports hall complete with viewing area, two squash courts, and additional changing and toilet facilities. The redevelopment has reinvigorated the centre, making it brighter, modern and more welcoming, whilst retaining its unique historical aspects.

The extension and remodelling works to the existing Grade II listed building were constructed using piled and steel frame together with brickwork, cladding and mesh façade materials and flat roofs. Internally, blockwork walls were incorporated with tiled finishes to the changing rooms, alongside specialist finishes and fittings to the squash courts and sports hall. Hard-wearing vinyl flooring has been put down within circulation areas, followed by plasterboard and tiled suspended ceilings. Externally a green Biowall contributes to the sustainable features, with the overall contract receiving a BREEAM Excellent.

The Sports Centre remained open throughout the works, which meant we had to work with restricted access and working hours to maintain the day-to-day operations of the Centre and its users. Due to its location in the heart of Aston University’s city centre campus, we also had to take measures to work in harmony with the adjacent University buildings and highways.