Essential spine duct compliance works are currently taking place across campus to resolve strategic and technical issues within the University’s spine ducts. The Spine Duct Strategic Improvements project, a three-year scheme which will see activities divided into separate packages of work to reduce disruption across campus. The initial two phases of the project will take place in 2023.

Phase 1: April 2023 – June 2023

The first phase of works will focus on gas detection and heat detection issues within the spine ducts. The works are unlikely to disturb or disrupt most spine users, however there may be some localised disruption to the Spine with access being required via various manhole chambers along the route of the spine footpath.

Phase 2: July 2023 – October 2023

The second phase of works will directly follow the conclusion of the first phase, commencing in July and completing in October 2023. This will include ventilation, fire stopping, signage and electrical improvement works to the south spine ducts, and will include an element of civils and building work above ground at Pendle College. Subsequent communications to stakeholders impacted by later phases of works will be distributed prior to the commencement of those works.

Should any LU Maintenance staff require access to the Spine Duct during the period April 2023 – October 2023, please can they contact the Project Manager Nick Szpunar so that access can be arrange with the Principal Contractor: n.szpunar@lancaster.ac.uk.

We apologise for any inconvenience these essential works may cause. If you require further information in relation to this project or have any issues concerning the Spine Duct Strategic Improvements project, please direct enquiries to the Facilities Communications inbox: facilitiescommunication@lancaster.ac.uk.