Cambridge: Alterations to the Pedestrian Gate on Jesus Lane at Jesus College.
Photographer: Paul Vonberg
Whilst major works continue to develop the New Kitchens, lifts and associated works to the Dining Hall and Upper Hall, smaller projects also need attention. One small but important project has involved the modification of the existing wrought iron gates which form the main entrance to the College. The gates were taken off site to allow special metalworkers Anglia Fabrications to create within the right hand gate a new motorised gate, and to modify the left hand gate to retain the symmetry of the pair. Meanwhile Paul McKenna, the College’s Carpentry and Buildings Supervisor made the oak ramp. A surprising quantity of detailed design and drawing was required to achieve a result which we hope looks entirely obvious and loses little of the gate’s character. The benefits for wheelchair users are evident and the central step, worn away by centuries of use, remains to receive more wear still.