Work is about to start on this new build, internal and external refurbishment project which forms phase one of a wider estates strategy at the Grade II* listed Mansfield College, Oxford.

The project removes an existing cramped Victorian kitchen from the historic building and places it in a new purpose built building along with improvements to welfare facilities and disabled access. The existing kitchens and back of house areas are remodelled by clearing partitions to create more efficient and accessible space for a new cafe and servery. The cafe extends outside through two historical, stone-framed windows which are converted sensitively to glass doors opening on to the new south facing, sunken terrace in the historic quad. A new feature stair and lift rationalises a series of existing changes of level and facilitates improved links to the historic buildings including the Chapel and Dining Hall.

The overall catering and conferencing facilities are much improved with twice the capacity for service. A Contractor has been appointed and work starts on site 25th February 2013 and is due to be completed early 2014.