A significant part of the University estate was constructed in the 1960s and these buildings were no longer functionally suitable.

The challenge for the team at Surrey was to demonstrate that to upgrade and remodel was in the long run a more sustainable option than demolition and rebuilding. After evaluating the buildings, the University made the decision to refurbish them and so embarked on a ten-year programme of investment in rejuvenation and improvements in energy efficiency and structure of the buildings.

The scale of the project was monumental and the decision to follow this process has dominated the Estate Strategy and programme of works over the last 10 years. It has in many ways reduced discussion about new buildings to focus more on need and delivery. Small projects have allowed small scale expansion and absorption of new activities. The campus plan has been maintained. Maintenance strategies have been coordinated with capital pans and long-term view of plant and equipment has been undertaken.

The refurbishment package included the following benefits:

• Reduction in heat loss of 60%. Reduction of drafts and improvement in local working environment
• Annual heating reduction by 8,000,000 kwh
• Carbon reduction more than 2,000 tonnes CO2 per annum
• Improved working conditions for staff and quality of the local internal environment improved
• No environmental impact due to demolition
• Extended life of existing resources and positioned the University to consider a further remodelling extending the life of the building even beyond their original life span of 60 years
• Improvement in electrical consumption due to the replacement of 80% of light fittings reduction of approx 1GWH and 450 tonnes CO2
• Improved functional suitability and compliance with legislation
• Introduction of energy reclaim within ventilation plant where possible
• Introduction of centralised chilled water cooling systems in key node points

Derry Caleb, Director of Estates and Facilities at the University of Surrey comments: "This programme of works has only been possible with the support of the staff, students and those affected by the works being undertaken within those areas that we have remodelled and refurbished. I believe it has made a huge difference to the campus and the buildings do not look tired and of poor quality as they did 10 years ago.

"This phase of replacement of windows, ventilation and electrical works will be complete in approximately two years' time. Building design and ability to remodel and replace building components is an essential part of life cycle costing, and sustainable developments and Surrey can demonstrate how this can be achieved and how we have taken on board the lessons learnt. The lessons learnt from the design of our buildings and renovation work will be included in a research document on 1960s buildings sponsored by HEFCE and AUDE. I would like to thank all of my staff for delivering the projects on time no matter how difficult they have been and irrespective of weather."

For more information about the Green Gown Awards, visit http://www. http://www.heepi.org.uk/