Cambridge Tutors College, Water Tower Hill, Croydon, Surrey

Cambridge Tutors College was founded in 1958 by Roger Osbourne and Frank MacCarthy, both graduates of Balliol College, Oxford. As time passed, a requirement was identified for a new study centre to embrace the latest computer technology. A new building was designed and after all the necessary consents were obtained, the project went out to competitive tender in July 2002.

Baker Construction Ltd was awarded the contract in July 2002 and commenced work on site at the end of September 2002. The new two storey building employs modern materials and contruction methods, but with careful specification of red bricks and reconstructed stone to the elevations, it achieves harmony with surrounding existing buildings. Despite the access to the site being steep and narrow, the contract was completed on time and within budget. Part of the works involved excavating into a steep bank to form a concrete retaining wall built off insitu concrete piles and finished in face brickwork.

The new Osbourne Study Centre was formally opened on 29 October by the Rt Hon The Lord Bingham of Cornhill PC. Special guests joined friends from the world of education, together with former students to celebrate the grand opening.

The new building, linked to the upper part of the site by a new pedestrian bridge, provides the following excellent facilities:-

A spacious library and private study area with ICT terminals
A tiered lecture theatre with electronic audio visual systems
A range of computer suites equipped with flat screen terminals
Washrooms and offices

In a letter to Baker Construction on completion of the contract, David Lowe, Principal, writes,

"The work has been done on time and on budget and we have been kept fully informed on progress throughout. The project has been characterized by excellent relations all round, spiced with a good deal of humour.

In consequence, we are delighted with the result and would be pleased to recommend Baker Construction Ltd to potential clients."

David Lowe has also nominated Baker Construction Ltd for a "Builder of the Year" award.

The Professional Team:

Architect - Howard Fairbairn and Partners, 439 London Road, Croydon
Structural Engineers - Howard Cavanna, 9 Sherwood Park Road, Sutton, Surrey
Quantity Surveyors - A J Oakes & Partners, 81 Station Road, West Wickham, Kent