Issue - meetings

Background:

This report sought permission to commence the procurement process for the refurbishment and conservation of the Grade I Listed Building, Eastgate House, High Street, Rochester, which represented the focal point of the Eastgate Conservation Area.

It was noted that the project would address the urgent conservation requirements of the house by transforming and securing the future of the building. A new lift, sensitively designed to complement the site, and the reinstatement of a demolished staircase would allow access for all to floors closed for decades. A robust Conservation Management Plan would ensure that decisions throughout the project and beyond would be taken with full consideration and understanding of the historical, social, aesthetic and communal significance of all areas of the house.

It was also noted that the project would introduce new galleries and education spaces to facilitate the Council’s learning and participation aims. Significant improvements to visitor facilities would generate new opportunities for income generation, creating new jobs and ensuring sustainability of the project.

This Gateway 1 report had been approved for submission to Cabinet after review and discussion at Regeneration, Community and Culture Directorate Management Team meeting on16 October 2013 and Procurement Board on 15 October 2013.

A Diversity Impact Assessment (DIA) screening had been undertaken and was attached at Appendix 1 to the report. It was noted that it had not been necessary to proceed to a full impact assessment.

An exempt appendix set out key information concerning finance and whole-life costing.

Reasons:

There is a design team and funding in place and the project meets the strategic needs of the Council.