A new scheme of "vital works" has begun at the site of a major £16m development in Lowestoft.

Work started last month to replace the windows at the purpose-built headquarters for the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) at its site on Pakefield Cliffs.

It comes just over two years after staff moved into the new state-of-the-art research centre following a major refurbishment in October 2019.

However, new "remedial" works have begun after it "became apparent" to estate management "that the windows and fixed glazing were not performing to specification" shortly after staff had moved into the new facility.

A scheme of works that are scheduled to continue for another seven months are now taking place - at "no expense to the tax-payer."

Demolition work started on the marine science centre in the summer of 2018 as new headquarters were built for Cefas.

The major renovations were due to be completed in the summer of 2020 but due to the coronavirus lockdown, the works – which saw Cefas’ previous building, the former Grand Hotel, demolished and replaced with a new research centre and modern office building – were delayed ahead of staff returning to the new facility in late 2019.

With Cefas having been based in Lowestoft since 1902, when it began as a small fisheries laboratory, funding was secured for a new leading-edge HQ in January 2018.

Back then Cefas said the new research centre could save up to £2m a year in running costs and would safeguard 440 jobs at the site.

With signs in front of the building recently unveiled to list the works as "site development", it states: "From January 2022 we will be undertaking remedial work to the main building windows of this Cefas site.

"It is expected the works will continue through to Autumn 2022.

"The work is being undertaken by our contractor Morgan Sindall at no expense to the tax-payer.

"We expect minimum disruption to local residents and businesses; however we apologise in advance should these vital works inconvenience you in any way."

With some Cefas staff believed to be working from home as the latest scheme of work progresses, a small number of temporary buildings have been installed in the car park area as the windows are replaced.

Works under way

Of the latest site works, a Cefas spokesman said: "The windows and fixed glazing in Cefas’ new, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft building are being replaced by the build contractor, at no cost to Cefas.

"Cefas moved into the building in October 2019 and, soon after, it became apparent that the windows and fixed glazing were not performing to specification.

"The current works intend to resolve this.

"During the works, Cefas will continue to operate from the site using other mixed-use laboratories, workshops and office areas with additional temporary facilities provided in the car park.

"Cefas also now promotes flexible working - between home and our sites - which will additionally help our science operations to continue without interruption.

"The works are planned to conclude in September 2022."