Restoration and Refurbishment of Old Magnus Buildings, Newark.

Descriptions

Newark and Sherwood District Council is seeking to appoint a contractor to enter into a single stage contract for the restoration and refurbishment of Grade II* Listed Buildings to create a new National Civil War Centre. Works include fabric repairs and structural interventions, formation of accessible entrances, replacement and renewal of Mechanical and Electrical Services, redecoration and refurbishment of all areas and re-landscaping the external courtyard areas to provide spaces for events and catering. Also, included within the provision is the construction of a new entrance building, the installation of a new café, WC facilities and education and community facilities.The project is funded in partnership with Heritage Lottery Fund, includes sensitive restoration and conservation within the historic core and conservation area of Newark on the street of Appleton Gate, which comprises predominately Georgian town houses.The heritage conservation aims of the project are to:(i) Ensure a sustainable new use to secure the buildings' survival for future generations(ii) Enable residents of and visitors to Newark to have access to, and enjoyment and understanding of the Old Magnus Buildings(iii) Maximise the retention of the historic fabric of the buildingsThe restoration of the Old Magnus Buildings as a museum will see a practicable and appropriate future for the site. The project will conserve and interpret valuable architectural heritage. The fabric of the buildings, in particular the Tudor architecture will be reinstated to the best of our understanding. Where possible features will be highlighted to ensure that audiences can appreciate them, for example, the historic graffiti will be preserved and interpreted.During the project delivery the contractor and project team shall stage a series of learning activities that will engage audiences and interpret the project development. These include open days, heritage crafts skills placements and demonstrations. Placements and open day support will be provided by our contracted developer, and we shall be working with local FE colleges in developing the placements. Opportunities are available in the following areas:— Brickwork;— Masonry;— Lime mortars and plaster work;— Joinery (traditional sash windows and doors, timber cornicing) and roofing (slate roofs and lead work).Four placements will be supported working with students from accredited Diploma Level 2-3 in construction skills. Supervision must be provided by experienced contractors, and this will form a key part of the appointment process. The contractor shall offer two open days during the development work to maintain public interest in the project, enable members of the public to access the building and see heritage crafts skills in use. The days will provide guided tours and demonstrations of heritage crafts skills.There is an expectation that the appointed contractors will be able to demonstrate significant experience of working on Heritage Lottery Funded projects of a relative value, have good relations with English Heritage and considerable experience of heritage conservation and restoration work, including developing heritage craft skills with apprentices and student placements and in supporting open days. Contractors unable to demonstrate this experience are unlikely to be invited to tender.