UG begins dismantling of building 5113 of Nijenborgh 4

As of September 14 Scheffer Groep from Hoogkerk will begin the partial demolition of building 5113 (Nijenborgh 4) of the University of Groningen (UG). This marks the next step in the development of the Interfaculty Learning Centre, a modern educational building where faculties on the Zernike Campus will jointly use teaching and research facilities. Building 5113 will be carefully dismantled, leaving only the concrete load-bearing structure, two stairwells and floors intact. This approach allows a significant portion of the original building to be reused, leading to substantial savings in energy and raw material consumption during construction.

A new home base for students on Zernike Campus

The University of Groningen is preparing a new Interfaculty Learning Centre in the current building 5113 at Nijenborgh 4. It will serve as a shared, inspiring learning environment, primarily for students from the faculties of Economics and Business (FEB), Spatial Sciences (FRW) and Science and Engineering (FSE).

The design by Benthem Crouwel Architects and Nieuwe Architecten includes flexible teaching spaces for groups of 30 to 100 students, along with several specialized laboratory rooms.

Cultural and historical value

Building 5113 at Nijenborgh 4 is a typical example of 1960s architecture and was one of the first buildings on the campus. As such, it holds significant historical value for the University of Groningen and the city of Groningen. The municipality has designated the building as characteristic, particularly due to its stairwells and facade design. The new design preserves these elements to maintain the recognizable style of the original architecture.

Circularity

The circular use of raw materials has been a core value for the University of Groningen in choosing transformation as the starting point for the redevelopment of building 5113. The foundation and existing concrete load-bearing structurewill be given a second life. Additionally, natural stone floors, stair treads, and window sills will be preserved and reused in the new design, and where feasible, the steel window frames will also be reused. Other materials will be recycled as much as possible.

Start of dismantling

The dismantling of Building 5113 will begin on Monday, September 14, with the installation of construction fencesaround the site and is expected to take 10 months, carried out by Scheffer Groep. First, asbestos and chromium-6 will be safely removed. Then, the building will be stripped down until only the concrete skeleton of columns and floor slabs remains. Scheffer Groep is officially authorized to perform this work safely, with legal oversight to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and demolition workers.

To minimize the disruption for students, staff, and others during the demolition work, various measures have been taken. The construction site will be enclosed with fencing, and a scaffold with noise, dust, and glass-proof sheeting will be installed along Zernikelaan. Additionally, the delivery and removal of materials will take place outside of peak hours as much as possible to minimize interference with regular traffic on campus.

Stay informed

Updates on the work will be shared via the BouwApp for campus users and stakeholders. Information boards with QR codes are also placed on and around the construction site. Questions or complaints can be submitted via the BouwApp or at the reception desks on the Zernike Campus.

Parties involved

The following parties are involved in the realization of this project: