The presentation will include an update on the latest architectural and landscape design information, and site logistics and build methodology for the Radcliffe Civic Hub project. The updates will be provided by Council Officers, and representatives from Pozzoni Architecture, Planit-IE, and Vinci Construction UK.
Minutes:
Councillor Eamonn O’Brien, the Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Finance and Growth, introduced Tony Harrison and Robert Symons from Vinci Construction UK, David Spoors from Pozzoni Architecture, and Rob Moore from Planit-IE, who, along with Council officers, gave a presentation on the latest architectural and landscape design information, site logistics and build methodology for the Radcliffe Civic Hub project.
Members discussed the information and, in response to Members’ questions, the following was noted:
Civic Hub building
· Numerous disability groups had been consulted in the development of plans, and disabled access to the swimming pool was facilitated including ambulant changing and a submersible lift;
· A number of suggestions from local swimming groups had been taken on board (including movable floor in training pool, group changing facilities, and maximising poolside storage);
· The Civic Hub was providing a larger library space than currently exists;
· Health services and Council use of office space on the second floor would allow for more public services to be delivered from Radcliffe.
Market Chambers and Market Hall Basement
· Existing head height in the Market Basement would be increased wherever possible by building down into the floor;
· The space would be ‘tanked’ to ensure it was water tight. This meant windows would be lost but pumps wouldn’t be needed. It also meant that the risk of flooding would be significantly decreased;
· The space could be used flexibly to broaden cultural activities in Radcliffe (i.e. events, performances, weddings, exhibitions, etc);
· Current proposals saw the space being Council-run but details as to staff numbers etc were still being scoped;
· Lighting would be utilised as effectively as possible to create a sense of space. Use of light wells would be explored but would take space from the floor above;
· Escape routes, smoke wells, and all fire safety measures were included in the plans;
· The top floor would be rentable office space and some interest had been already received;
· All new-build areas would be carbon-neutral. Renovations of existing buildings would be made as eco-friendly as possible (i.e. through thermal efficiency, glazing, additional PVs on the roof).
· A profit/loss business plan for the Market Chambers building would be provided to Members when available.
Landscaping/surrounding area
· Parking would be to the north of the development. A parking strategy would be developed but was not part of this particular project;
· The Radcliffe Office opening times were available online. It was open Tuesday and Thursdays and residents were encouraged to stop by or to email and arrange for a meeting at their convenience;
· Development would be phased to ensure the whole town centre wasn’t a building site at the same time;
· The John Atkinson Memorial was proposed to be moved to a more sheltered spot with planting around it, and it was confirmed the Atkinson family were being consulted about this;
· Flexible use of space would be maintained, with public seating and room for the market and retailers to ‘spill out’.
Construction methodology and logistics:
· It was noted these details were subject to change as the plans were developed further;
· Discussions with tenants affected by the building work were ongoing. Officers advised every effort was being made to ensure tenants would not need to stop trading and that they would be financially reimbursed for any disruption. Costs of any decant would not be met by the tenant but would be incorporated into the project costs.
It was agreed:
That the update be noted and a summary of timescales involved be circulated.