LST Projects has begun the refurbishment of Mercantile House at Portsmouth University. The fast-track project will see the contractor revamp six of the building’s 11 storeys within 22 weeks.

Floors 2, 3, 5, 9, 10 and 11 will be stripped out and modernised, including the delivery of new mechanical and electrical services. Most of the space will be reconfigured requiring light demolition and suspended ceiling adaptations along with the installation of new internal partitions walls, glazed screens and floor finishes.

On levels 10 and 11, LST will be responsible for structural works enabling a new platform lift to be fitted providing disabled access to the top floor. A cutout will be created in the existing concrete floor and steelwork installed. On the top level, LST will also create new office space and a roof garden featuring landscaping, decking, seating and a pergola.

The building, which houses several different departments, including the University’s estates team, will remain in use throughout the project.

Sean Campbell, Contracts Manager for LST, said: “This is a logistically challenging project due to the building’s location and need to work across several different levels while it is still occupied. Mercantile House can only be accessed via a narrow one-way road, so we have taken possession of a small area at the front which will be used as our site compound and for unloading.

“To minimise disruption for the building’s tenants, we are in regular communication with key stakeholders to keep them informed and any noisy works will be carried out outside of normal working hours. We will also be phasing our handovers, enabling teams to swiftly move into refurbished spaces as the project progresses.”

LST is working in partnership with building consultancy Ridge and Partners LLP to deliver the refurbishment.

‍

‍