ONE of 54 fume cupboards gets loaded into a specialised lifting cage before its ascent into the University of York's new £6 million three-storey Chemistry D Block.

The work marked a significant milestone in York-based Shepherd Engineering Services' £2 million mechanical and electrical installation contract on the project, which should be finished by this spring.

The delivery of the cupboards, worth more than £250,000, represents the

start of the major internal installation process in the two comprehensive laboratory suites situated on the first and second floors.

Work will also now start on the lab gases, compressed air, vacuum, gas monitoring and detection systems, along with a bespoke laboratory hot and cold water service in the areas.

The new three-storey educational and research laboratory building is part of a proposed two-phase development that will replace the existing university facilities.

When finished, its prime function will be to house research in organic and analytical studies. The building will also give staff and students a first-class environment for this specialised research.

The principal contractor for the project is Allenbuild.

A SECOND Shepherd arm, Shepherd Construction is allowing the people of Leeds to see the LIGHT.

The Leeds Institute of Genetics, Health & Therapeutics - hence LIGHT - is a £7.6 million Shepherd project for the University of Leeds.

The company is now well under way with its steelwork phase on the fourth floor of the 4,500 sq metre laboratory complex.

By the time it opens in September, it will house the very latest in high-tech research facilities.

The project continues Shepherd's strong relationship with the University of Leeds. The York firm's previous contracts there include a sports centre, psychology block and 235 student study bedrooms.

Updated: 11:23 Monday, March 08, 2004