Works for the Riverside Project officially kicked off at the end of March, bringing some temporary changes to how we move around the Cloisters. This project is an exciting redevelopment of the OKB and Gothics areas, aimed at creating a vibrant, shared community space for everyone in College.
While a project of this scale takes time, the main works are projected to begin in October 2026 (subject to the procurement process completing successfully). Because we know how vital the Old Kitchen Bar (OKB) and the Austin Gill Room are for socialising and college events, we want to reassure everyone that these spaces will remain fully open and bookable as usual until September.
To prepare for the transformation, several facilitator projects are already underway:
- We are constructing a new workshop at Marston Road, with the Maintenance Department planning to move there this October.
- You may have noticed changes to the grounds, including the felling of the Ginkgo biloba tree and plant relocation. These are necessary for essential archaeological excavations.
- We are currently installing a lift at Cloisters IX to ensure the JCR and MCR Common Rooms are fully accessible. You will notice scaffolding and some blocked zones here until mid-October.
To keep everyone safe during construction, the following changes are in place until October:
- The JCR has moved to the Oscar Wilde Room. The MCR will remain in its usual spot until the summer.
- Cloisters IX.1 (Lecturer’s Room), the ground floor WCs, the IX staircase, and the smoking area by the Gothics are currently closed.
- The passageway between Cloisters VII and VIII is now for contractor use only.
- The public toilets in the Gothics are closed until further notice; however, alternative facilities are available for use in Staircase IX in Cloisters. We intend to reopen the Gothics toilets when it is safe to do so.
You’ll notice a site compound (the contractors’ equipment hub) on the lawn by the Gothics and a chicane near the Great Plane Tree to protect its roots from heavy vehicles.
Despite the activity, we are committed to minimal disruption. While you might see occasional marshalled vehicle movements near the Longwall Street entrance, all main roadways and paths remain usable. We appreciate your patience while we make these historic improvements.
