J.J. Thomson – University of Reading
The J.J.
The challenge
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.
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.
Our solution: Chain-Driven Platform Lift
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 APL Chain-Driven Platform Lift 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.
Lift details
- Capacity
- 500kg (6 persons)
- Floors served
- 3 floors
- Travel
- 3,340mm
- Pit
- None (ramp access)
- Doors
- Automatic, 900 x 2,000mm
- Location
- Reading
- Sector
- Education
- Completed
- 2025
See more lifts for schools and universities, or explore the Chain-Driven Platform Lift.
Discuss your projectChain-Driven Platform Lift at J.J. Thomson – University of Reading
APL Chain-Driven Platform Lift
A flexible, space-efficient accessibility solution, offering smooth travel, minimal building work and a choice of glazed or solid enclosures for commercial, public and residential buildings.
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We have used Alliance Platform Lifts on various projects over the last 3-4 years and we find them to be professional, punctual and very forward thinking. No problem is too great and the communication at both tender and post installation stage is second to none. We will continue to use APL’s services on any future platform or cabin lift projects we have.Daniel Griffin · Google review
I am so pleased with the service from everyone at alliance platform lifts, they have been so professional and helpful throughout the whole process, would highly recommend!Max Ball · Google review
outstanding service, very pleased with the product and the process from quoting to after sales care. Highly recommended!Kenton Mitchell · Google review
Polite, quick, good service. Quick installation. Helpful staff.Jerry Peters · Google review
Outstanding service from Alliance would 100% recommendAG Detail · Google review
10/10 experience. Highly recommend!Josh · Google review
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