Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council is recruiting an architect for the conservation and repair of its deteriorating Victorian conservatory in Corporation Park [Deadline: 16 December 2024]The winning team selected for the estimated 136,800 contract will draw up a restoration plan for the Grade II-listed cast iron frame-structure which was originally constructed as a grand and unique landmark in the early 1900s but partially collapsed five years ago.The project aims to restore the highly decorated structure which sits on a stone and brick plinth and has been made safe with timber propping following the collapse of its west wing in 2019. Key aims of the project include delivering a sympathetic and sustainable restoration which enables future use of the structure.AdvertisementAccording to the brief: The aim of this project is to gain a full understanding of the condition and significance of the conservatory and create a set of guiding principles for its restoration.This will include producing costed high level concept designs for future uses in agreement with stakeholders with the aim to allow public consultation to follow this piece of work.Sustainability and options to bring the building back into use in a manner which can contribute to the councils net zero targets, will be key.Blackburn is a former textiles manufacturing town located around 34km north of Manchester. The settlement is home to around 100,000 people and is part-way through an ambitious 34 million regeneration masterplan by Sanderson Borland.Recent projects in the local area include an 8 million extension to the Grade II*-listed Blackburn Cathedral by Purcell. Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council launched a search for an architect to refurbish and upgrade the ruined, Grade II-listed Church of St John the Evangelist in 2021.AdvertisementBids for the latest commission will be evaluated 85 per cent on quality and 15 per cent on social value. Applicants must hold employers liability insurance of 5 million, public liability insurance of 5 million and professional indemnity insurance of 2 million.Competition detailsProject title Architectural Design and Conservation Repair ServicesClient Blackburn with Darwen Borough CouncilContract value TbcFirst round deadline Midday, 16 December 2024Restrictions TbcMore information https://www.contractsfinder.service.gov.uk/notice/1ea47691-59ca-47fc-9482-b35616f2b478