The transformation of the College building: past, transformation and present 

The past

The Royal College of Surgeons’ presence in Lincoln’s Inn Fields has a rich history which dates from the purchase of the first property, number 41, in 1796. Since then, the College gradually expanded to own number 37 to 42. The main building was designed by Sir Charles Barry, who then went on to design the Houses of Parliament. 

The past

The transformation

Building work began in September 2017. A period of ‘soft stripping’ commenced and the tightly managed removal of asbestos followed. The demolition of the building, dating from 1941, was completed in May 2019. Construction of the new College began the same month and was completed in July 2021. 

The transformation

The present

Our new home of surgery now provides state of the art education facilities, using evidence-based, technology-enhanced learning for the entire surgical and dental team. The building also includes world-class examination and event spaces, research facilities and improved member areas – creating a flexible and efficient working environment for the future. 

The present