Inside the modernisation of UK Antarctic research station, Rothera

A number of major construction milestones have been reached at the facility, including the restoration of a 32-year-old runway. 

Work to bring the UK’s polar science hub up to 21st Century standards are now almost complete, with BAM, Ramboll and Sweco working in partnership with the British Antarctic Survey since 2017. Transformation of the site will ensure teams can remain at the bleeding edge of research into the climate, biodiversity, and health of the region. 

The Rothera Research Station requires a working runway to operate effectively, and this has now been resurfaced and fully restored following some 32 years enduring extreme weather in the area. Local rock salvaged from a previous wharf project has been incorporated in an effort to reduce footprints associated with the upgrade. Energy efficient lighting has also been installed, while drainage has been improved. 

A new Discovery Building, dedicated to science and operations, has now entered its final 12 months of construction. The state-of-the-art facility has utilised a high degree of internal insulation, and includes a plant room, storage areas, medical centre and offices. External glazing and solar panels also form part of the blueprint, helping support the structure’s energy needs. 

‘At the end of a long, productive and challenging season, these strides forward would not have been possible without our incredibly collaborative team. We have progressed to such an extent that we’re looking forward to completing next season’s work, which will see the Discovery Building being handed over and brought into operational use,’ said Elen Jones, Antarctic Infrastructure Modernisation Programme [AIMP] Director at BAS.

‘For the first time, AIMP team members working on construction joined the existing on-site winterers who operate the station under extreme conditions and prolonged darkness,’ she continued. ‘These ‘overwintering’ efforts see joiners and electricians focus on the interior fit-out of the Discovery Building, preparing the facility for the next austral summer construction phase beginning in November.’

Take a look at images from  the Rothera Research Station below. 

More on climate change and net zero: 

BSI partners with The Earthshot Prize to scale finalist ideas

WATCH: CCC report, UK plans only credible for 1/3 of emissions

Looking for a sustainability career? UK’s top climate studies universities revealed

Image: AIMP