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Rathbone / University Hall / Old Halls

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Rathbone / University Hall / Old Halls

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1907

Postcard (posted 1907) from College Road

Built by the Bangor Womens' Hostel Co. Ltd in the 'Queen Anne Style' to accomodate 50 students and opened in 1897. Being for female student only and being the first purpose built student accomodation in Bangor.

The Building cost £5000, built by Evan Williams (Garth) by designs from Frank Bellis of Messrs Grierson (architect of St Mary's College) & Bellis (Bangor).

It is Roofed in Green Y Felinheli Slate with basement and 4 storeys and remains in use in the main University estate today situated off College Road.

The old images below suggest a timber and glazing addition to the main entrance was added between Feb 1920 - July 1920.

Major additions and alterations were made in 1955-59 from the plans of Sir Percy Thomas and Sons; a new dining hall and kitchens were built in 1955, followed by alterations to the old buildings, and in 1958-9 extensive additions were made to the residential quarters.

In 1965 the University had expanded the residential portfolio with the development of a site at the top of Love Lane by designs from Colwyn Foulkes.

In October 1974 The Old Hall became the first building to be a devoted residence for Welsh speaking students (mixed), with 153 in residence and a new branding as 'Neuadd John Morris Jones'.

The new building at the top of Love Lane later inherited the 'Neuadd John Morris Jones' title from the Old Halls. The Old Halls were then renamed as Rathbone.

In 2011/2012 architects Bowen Dann Knox (Colwyn Bay) undertook the refurbishment of the Rathbone extension, and the addition of a glazed entrance to the old building. It included extensive internal works in altering the building to administrative use as the University focused accommodation on Ffriddoedd.