Issue - meetings

Report from the Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Growth attached.

The Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Growth presented the report which sought budget approval to recruit a project manager /construction manager to oversee all aspects of the project from its inception to completion.

The Leader expressed his satisfaction that the appointed architect, Ellis Williams, a local firm with a strong track record of delivering projects in the area. and Councillor Thorpe noted their commitment to social value and suggested that they could help set a standard for supporting care leavers through employment or training opportunities. The Leader confirmed that the Council would continue to push for such added value, as it has done in other projects, and that this initiative could align well with the Council’s broader social and economic development goals.

He also commented on the importance of creating high-quality working environments, noting that well-designed, light-filled spaces can significantly improve productivity. In relation to the Town Hall, Councillor O’Brien stated that the Council is exploring ways to make the building fit for modern use. He acknowledged that while modernisation is important, it does not always mean replacing traditional features, and a hybrid approach that respects the building’s heritage while enhancing functionality would be considered.

Decision:

The Cabinet:

1.    Approved the appointment of the successful architect Ellis Williams Architects Limited and the project cost in its entirety, to undertake the design of a phased refurbishment of the Town Hall. The contract award will be for all RIBA work stages, subject to two individual break clauses to be exercised at the discretion of the Council at the close of RIBA stage 2 and 4.

2.    Authorised the Director of Law and Democratic Services in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Strategic Growth to finalise the terms of the contract appointing the architect.

3.    Approved the additional budget of £649,628 to proceed with actions below, ensuring on going compliance of the Town Hall building and progress the refurbishment project including:

a.    Appointment of Architect and LK

b.    Town Hall Project Manager

c.     Asbestos removal

d.    Compliance of the Town Hall

e.    Refurbishment of the Town Hall

Reasons for the decision:

The recommendations represent the next stage in the delivery of a phased refurbishment of the Town Hall up to RIBA stage 2 and the phased exiting from leased premises at 3 and 6 Knowsley Place, reducing the size and cost of the administrative estate.

Mitigate any health and safety concerns within the Town Hall that have been raised during the process so far.

Creation of a higher quality office space in the Town Hall.

Potential to create future income generation and increase town centre footfall through the sub lease of ground floor space and opportunities, as well as a desire to provide contemporary workplace and office design to reflect new agile working practises and promote staff wellbeing.

Alternative options considered and rejected:

Do not commence appointment of the architect and continue to repair any ad hoc repairs on the Town Hall.

Remain in 3KP five-storey block at 3 Knowsley Place until  ...  view the full minutes text for item 377