Northumbria University Project Tour – Durant Hall and NESST

Join Women in Property NE for an exclusive behind-the-scenes site visit at Northumbria University, exploring two landmark projects shaping the future of the campus: the transformation of the Grade II listed Durant Hall and the cutting-edge North East Space Skills and Technology Centre (NESST).

This event offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from the client, designers and project teams, gaining insight into how heritage, innovation, education and industry collaboration come together on a live university campus.

The visit will begin with a talk from Jon Coffey on Northumbria University’s wider campus development strategy, setting the context for how projects like Durant Hall and NESST support evolving teaching, research, enterprise and industry partnerships.

Attendees will then split into two groups to take part in guided site tours of both buildings, led by the project architects, contractors and specialist team members. The tours will explore design intent, construction challenges, stakeholder engagement and lessons learned from delivering complex projects within constrained urban and heritage settings.

Itinerary

11:30 – Arrival, registration, buffet and welcome
12:00 – 12:30 – University Strategy Talk by Jon Coffey (including Q&A)
12:30 – 14:00 – Site tours (attendees split into two groups):

• Durant Hall – heritage-led refurbishment and modernisation
• NESST – state-of-the-art research, development and clean-room facilities

Tours will run consecutively, with both groups visiting each building. Attendees must bring their own PPE (see below).

Members and non-members of all genders are welcome to attend.

PPE Information

5 Point PPE Required (no bare legs i.e. no shorts):

• Hard Hat.
• High-Visibility Vest/Jacket
• Safety Boots. Must be lace-up
• Gloves
• Safety Glasses/Goggles

Registration Deadline: 10 March 2026

Event Contact: Events Team