St Catherine's College, Oxford, RAAC removal project

Client: Other key credits: Rise4, Oxford Architects, AKSWard, Ingleton Wood, Colvin Moggridge, Pendery Architecture, Tree Frontiers, MKA Ecology, Beard Construction and Atkins Realis.

Executive summary from entrant:

 The most challenging planning cases can relate to existing buildings rather than new construction, as exemplified by St Catherine’s College Oxford, a modernist masterpiece by Arne Jacobsen, where the entire roofs of multiple, individually designated Grade 1 listed buildings were constructed of RAAC. Prevalent in public buildings from 1950s-80s, removal at this scale within such stringent planning constraints is unprecedented. Furthermore, tackling it had consequences on adjacent features; and consents were sought within ambitious timeframes. Striking the balance between structural integrity and heritage protection was paramount, with key heritage stakeholders deeply involved. The application was complex, and the stakes high.