2026: Transform: JJ Thomson lecture theatres refurbished and renamed

Tuesday, 25 September 2018

The Ditchburn and Right Hand Lecture Theatres have undergone a £2.3m modernisation transforming the interior of the theatres, providing increased seating capacity and improving access arrangements. The right hand lecture theatre has been renamed in honour of Professors Anthony and Julia Slingo, while the Ditchburn lecture theatre retains its name.  A formal ceremony will take place later in the year.

New seating, lighting and audio-visual systems have been installed, along with automated doors for ease of access. Significant extra capacity has been gained by incorporating the projection room into the main body of each theatre. This is most noticeable in the Slingo lecture theatre where the capacity has increased from under 100 to over 170 seats.

The lobby area has been extended by moving an IT store room allowing two doors into each theatre, improving access and providing improved circulation.

These refurbishments were completed on schedule, under budget and form part of the University’s ambitious 2026: TRANSFORM capital investment programme, which focuses on improving campus facilities and supporting the student experience.