JJT - University of Reading
The J.J. Thomson Building (JJT) at the University of Reading is a key science facility on the Whiteknights campus, named after the famous physicist who discovered the electron.
Primarily dedicated to science teaching and research, the J.J. Thomson Building serves as a central hub for departments such as Chemistry, Pharmacy, and various interdisciplinary science programs. Equipped with cutting-edge laboratories, seminar rooms, and research facilities, the building supports both undergraduate and postgraduate education.
APL4
The Brief
The college were looking to upgrade and enlarge their existing 3 stop platform lift to provide disabled access to the lecture theatres. Alliance Platform Lifts needed to install a fully compliant platform lift without disturbing daily university operations.
Primary Challenges:
Fabricating new gantries: The new lift size was to be slightly larger than the existing lift which meant that the existing gantries were not suitable. We carefully designed and fabricated new gantries along with all other associated builders works.
Working within a live university environment: All works had to be carefully planned around ongoing academic activities to avoid disruption within a busy campus setting.
The Result
With its fully glazed structure, 1,120mm x 1,680mm platform, automatic swing doors, and through configuration, this lift provides a smart solution for smooth and efficient movement on campus.
The discreet, modern design of this APL4 also integrates seamlessly into the existing architecture whilst the glass panels invite light into the space. This reduces the need for artificial lighting and overall improves the ambiance within the shaft.
