Issue - meetings

Consideration was given to a report of the Executive Director for Place and Economic Growth which sought approval to proceed to the next stage of the Old Library Building: Restoration and Refurbishment Phase 2.

The report provided details of the work already undertaken at the Old Library site including demotion and strip out, extensive programmes of surveys and investigations and the current position works undertaking the restoration and conservations works to the external fabric of the building.

During February 2021 a priority works schedule addressing the most significant conservation issues affecting the Old Library building capturing the most disruptive structural and fabric interventions requited to present the building for a future fit out was approved.

Approval was given to award the priority works contract to Tilbury Douglas Construction and work started on site in December 2021. During May 2022 approval was given to issue a works contract modification to enable additional works to be undertaken.

The feasibility option assessment set out the following parameters for the Old Library accommodation goals;

·         Public, community space and meeting rooms on the ground floor

·         Enhanced / available space for community groups to collaborate from across arts, culture and performance and who need more space to deliver their activities and services. 

·         Additional gallery space on the upper floor as there is connecting bridge to the existing Gallery

·         Civic space – Council Chamber, mayoral chamber, member rooms, committee meeting rooms and executive office space for officers / support staff.

The Strategic Business Case (SBC) had been developed to understand the value in utilising baseline future use assessments and this document set out the procurement and development strategy for the Old Library restoration and refurbishment phase 2.  The SBC documentation (appended to the part b paper) sets out:

·         What is the rational for the project, case for change and the business need

·         Indicative costs and phasing

·         Procurement and delivery strategy

·         Financial implications

·         Links to corporate strategy/asset management

The lead consultant will be responsible for the co-ordination of the design of the project and for the appointment, coordination, management, and programming of the activities of the Design Team. 

A procurement exercise has also been completed for the external project management team, cost consultant and principal designer.

Options/Alternatives considered

Option 1 – proceed to the next stage of project development

·         Note the completed Strategic Business Case (SBC) and agree to its approval as the basis of the delivery of the preferred facility mix for the Old Library restoration and refurbishment Phase 2.

·         Authorise formal agreement and award of the contract(s) in the configuration set out in this report for the next stage of project development.

Option 2 – Carry out further accommodation analysis:to undertake further future uses / accommodation analysis it would be necessary to carry out a further review of the Councils accommodation needs and strategic ambitions.

Objectives would need to be re-set and opportunities to drive programme, design and construction efficiencies would not be realized. Project development would-be put-on hold and the outturn cost for re-development  ...  view the full minutes text for item 9