GB-Colchester: Architectural Design Services for Mill Road

Colchester Amphora Trading, on behalf of Colchester Borough Council are seeking Architectural Design Services for a new community facility in Highwoods. Situated on Mill Road in North Colchester, we are working with the Diocese of Chelmsford, St Luke's Church, Myland Community Council and appointed trustees to develop a welcoming, inclusive community space for local people.

As part of the wider Colchester Northern Gateway Development, Colchester Rugby Club will move to the new Colchester Sports Park in 2021. Their old site will then be redeveloped to include new housing, healthcare provision and a village green bordering Mill Road.

The forthcoming pedestrian boulevard The Walk will run alongside the site providing excellent walking and cycling access from further afield and the new community facility has the potential to be a building of significance in the area. Adjacent to the site is also a new 'Village Green' providing open space.

Due to the move the former clubhouse building will be left empty. However, it is in poor condition and expensive to maintain.

Therefore, we would like to explore options and recommendations to either: a) Demolish the existing building and create a new sustainable space from scratch - ideally using any materials than can be salvaged Or b) Redevelop the existing rugby clubhouse building into an attractive, sustainable community centre We would like there to be a strong focus on environmental considerations and carbon emissions in line with the Council's ambition to be zero carbon by 2030. Further details are available within the tender pack.

Additional information: The contracting authority considers that this contract may be suitable for economic operators that are small or medium enterprises (SMEs). However, any selection of tenderers will be based solely on the criteria set out for the procurement.