Some of your frequently asked questions

How much is the project going to cost?It is estimated that the New Academic Building will represent a £20m investment into Goldsmiths' estate.

When did work begin?

Work is already underway to prepare the site for work on the New Academic Building. Planning permission was granted, subject to conditions, on Friday 20 February 2009, with site set up and pre- construction work beginning in earnest on Monday 23 February.

When will it be completed?

The project has a completion date of July 2010. The building will be ready for occupation ready for the new term commencing September 2010.

What are the project's 'green' credentials?

One of the principal aims of the project is achieving sustainability and this is reflected in the design of the New Academic Building. The architects, Stride Treglown, seek to deliver social, environmental and economic benefits at a pragmatic level. Stride Treglown have green credentials of their own having achieved IS0 14001 environmental management accreditation, a management model established by decreasing of using of natural resources, decreasing of harms against soil, water and weather with risk analysis. There is much more to news to come on this, so check back for more information in the future.

BREEAM is the environmental assessment method for buildings around the world and Goldsmiths is aiming for this building to achieve a 'very good' rating. Environmentally friendly features include bat and bird boxes to protect ecology, heating sourced from a Biomass boiler and extensive use of natural ventilation, aided by four large wind towers on the roof. Recycled materials will be used in internal floor finishes and a high proportion of the construction materials will be able to be recycled.

Will the trees on the College Green be cut down?

The existing trees on the College Green have been factored into the design process and will not be removed. During construction a method of tree protection will be used to protect these retained trees. The architects have designed the building so that it makes use of the tree foliage, with views of the building being reduced during summer months by shading deciduous the trees which will help to reduce the building cooling load. During winter months the building will become visible through the gauze of bare tree branches and the building will benefit from any solar gain available following leaf fall.

Why can’t I use the Barriedale Gate or park my car in the surrounding area?

The closure of the Barriedale Gate to staff and student cars and the restrictions on parking around this area are essential to permit safe access for contractors’ vehicles to the site. The entire area needs to be accessible for contractors to bring in materials and heavy machinery. During works, this area will be secured as a building site, and as such it will be closed off to the public and unauthorised people on grounds of health and safety.

Where will the Department of Media and Communications be situated for the duration of the building work?

Departmental facilities previously located in Barriedale Building G have been relocated to St James Hall. See the campus map - St James Hall is located at point number 8 on the map. Goldsmiths staff can use the online directory to find telephone numbers and room numbers for colleagues. Students and external enquiries relating to the locations of staff should be directed to the main College switchboard on 020 7919 7171.