We have invested a lot over recent years on our buildings and estates. As an independent college, we receive no funding from Durham University for the maintenance of our buildings and estates, or indeed for new buildings, and the projects on this page have been funded through a combination of efficiencies and support from generous alumni and friends of College. Our projects have included the refurbishment and extension of the Haughton Dining Room, reclaiming an overgrown section of the garden to create a new outdoor ampitheatre through the Project Flowerpot initiative, and the creation of a new accommodation block,The Garth. Our most recent fundraising project, which is the largest for this small college to date, is the creating of a new Learning Resource Centre.
Learning Resource Centre
We are delighted that the Learning Resource Centre was finished at the end of June 2019. After a period of archeological excavation, the LRC was constructed between July 2018 to June 2019. Watch a time lapse video of the demolition of the old house here and one of the construction of the LRC here. The Sir William Leech Library occupies the first and second floors of our purpose-built Learning Resource Centre, with around 27,000 books. The LRC provides over double the number of study spaces than the previous library, as well as a state-of-the art lecture room and seminar room on the ground floor. College extends a huge thank you to all those alumni and friends who have made this project possible.
We are indebted to the support of generous donors who contributed to a campaign to fund a new eight for St John’s College Boat Club. Despite competing in an ageing boat, the Club enjoyed a highly successful year in 2015-2016, demonstrating that passion, commitment and intense training can help a small club achieve great things.
Thanks to the support of alumni and friends of St. John's, Haughton Dining Room and Haughton Orangery extension were officially opened on October 5th 2012 by the Principal, Revd Professor David Wilkinson. Since 2012 students have enjoyed a huge, airy modern space where the whole College can eat, as well as a new, modern servery. Dining in College has been transformed and we would like to reiterate our hearfelt thanks to those of you who supported this project. Please do come into College to see the new room, we'd be delighted to show you around and if you let us know in advance, you'll be welcome to join us for lunch!
Forty students ranging from Freshers to Postgrads now occupy The Garth which has not only ensuite bedrooms, but excellent cooking facilities, a lift and purpose built rooms for disabled students or visitors. The roof top rooms enjoy a beautiful view of The Cathedral and River. The Garth's green credentials are secure with rainwater recycling and cost effective heating well in evidence.
The Garth was opened on October 5th 2012 by former Principal, David Day who also suggested the name for the building , based on the fact that: "A ‘Garth’ is an enclosed area, like an orchard or walled garden. It captures the hope that this building may be a place of safety, where people may grow and friendships flourish. It speaks of an ordered space, of fruitfulness and growth."