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The Centenary Building at Salford University, which was awarded the prestigious Stirling Prize in 1996, has been scheduled for demolition. Although the building was once hailed as Britain’s best new architecture for its modern and sophisticated use of steel, glass, and concrete, it has been vacant for the past eight years. Salford University claims that due to ageing infrastructure, it no longer meets modern standards and requirements.
“It has now been vacant for a third of its built life. Careful consideration has been given to the history… and the University of Salford intends to demolish the building,” stated the university. Salford City Council’s broader redevelopment plan for the area includes the Centenary Building’s proposed demolition, although a timeline for the work has not yet been announced.
However, architect Stephen Hodder voiced his dissatisfaction with the decision. He proposed that instead of demolition, the building could be adapted and reused for environmental reasons. He intends to see how existing structures can be transformed to address concerns about carbon emissions and climate change. The Twentieth Century Society has also campaigned for the building to obtain a listing designation, given its praise in the architectural world.
Originally built for less than £4 million and designed in less than 12 weeks, the steel and glass design featured cutting-edge environmental features, such as a natural ventilation system and underfloor heating. These were seen as groundbreaking in environmental circles, and the building garnered numerous accolades, including the Stirling Prize and Civic Trust award. However, former staff complained that it was too hot in summer and too cold in winter, and that the sound insulation was terrible.
Despite the challenges, Mr Hodder states that 30 years since its construction, the technology for the building has greatly improved, and its problems can be remedied with environmental controls. He suggests that the issues are not sufficiently severe as to warrant demolition, stating that adapting existing buildings is essential for sustainability and responsible building practices
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