ISG and Cardiff mark Abacws high point

A purpose-built computer science and maths building has been remotely ‘topped out’ by global construction specialist ISG and Cardiff University.

The building - formally named Abacws - brings together the School of Computer Science and Informatics and the School of Mathematics in one world-leading facility.

Abacws will support the growth of both departments and provide opportunities for greater collaboration and research.

ISG has introduced a range of on-site initiatives during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Richard Skone, South Wales Regional Director, ISG, said “Safety is at the heart of project delivery. We responded quickly to the pandemic and put in place systems to ensure the welfare of employees, Cardiff University students and staff. Following initial containment measures, we were able to introduce new practices including temperature checks for everyone coming onto the site, socially distanced catering and welfare facilities for those working and additional PPE where required.”

When completed, the building on Senghennydd Road will feature six storeys of teaching rooms, staff accommodation, study and research spaces, including a 250-seat lecture theatre and several IT labs.

Professor Rudolf Allemann, Pro Vice-Chancellor International and Student Recruitment, and Head of the College of Physical Sciences and Engineering, said: “We are delighted to have topped out a building that will bring tremendous benefits to students and staff in the  Schools of Computer Science and Informatics and Mathematics. Abacws will provide cutting-edge teaching and research facilities in support of these rapidly developing disciplines.

“ISG and the University have collaborated closely to develop ways of addressing the challenges of the pandemic. In future, we hope this spirit of innovation will be instilled in Abacws itself as it develops research in cyber security, artificial intelligence and data science - areas of major importance to society.”

Tom Hyett, a Cardiff graduate (BSc Astrophysics, 2019) and new member of ISG staff, marked the reaching of the highest construction point.

Tom, pictured, from Newport, said: “It is really exciting to be employed on a project of this scale for the University I attended, and also to mark topping out in the photograph. I have only just started working for ISG following an internship, and I’m looking forward to using the skills I learnt during my degree.”

The building, designed by Stride Treglown with Adjaye Associates, stands on the Cathays campus next to Cathays railway station. It is due to open in 2021.