Issue - meetings

Background:

This report sought permission to award a contract that focused on conserving the important historic fabric of Eastgate House and adapting the building so that it can be used as a distinctive and vibrant community resource for Medway residents and visitors.

The project would conserve the building and heritage and address the urgent conservation requirements of the house. A new lift and the reinstatement of a demolished staircase would allow access for all to floors closed for decades.

A Conservation Management Plan would ensure that decisions throughout the project and beyond were taken with full consideration and understanding of the historical, social, aesthetic and communal significance of all areas of the house.

The report set out details of the procurement process and business case associated with this project, together with details of the potential risks and the plans to mitigate them. An exempt appendix contained key financial analysis and tender evaluation and award information.

It was noted that Cabinet had approved the commencement of this procurement at Gateway 1 on29 October 2013 and that this Gateway 3 Report had been approved for submission to the Cabinet after review and discussion by the Regeneration Community and Culture Directorate Management Team and Procurement Board.

Reasons:

The project will conserve this wonderful building and heritage for generations to come opening it up as a distinctive, valued and vibrant community resource for Medway and our visitors.