News: JCR and Library Extensions to go ahead

Building work will soon start on the planned extensions to the Library and Junior Common Room, which will provide extra space and facilities for current students at Grey to study and to enjoy the experience of Grey during their time here at Durham.

The JCR has remained the same size since the College’s foundation in 1959 when there were only 300 students, but now the community has reached a size of 800 or so. The enlarged space will contain a JCR office, a small shop and a quiet room for meetings and for general use. The Library extension will double the study space available; there will also be improved book storage facilities and a small office for the Librarian. Historically, a Library has always claimed to be the heart of a College and I am delighted that the building work will be going ahead soon.

The costs of the Library and JCR extensions have been donated by Alumni and friends of Grey through the Jubilee Appeal, by the JCR itself, and by a large and most generous gift from the estate of the late Dr Thetis Blacker, an Honorary Fellow of the College and a distinguished artist. The College is immensely grateful to everyone who has helped in this way: their kindness and vision will ensure that future generations of Grey men and women can enjoy high quality facilities for both academic work and relaxation for many years to come.

Professor Martyn Chamberlain
Master of Grey College

Added Friday 28th January 2011