Architects required for Winter Gardens revamp

28 Jul 2010, 12:10

Michael Hunt

Blackpool Council is seeking architects for the restoration and redevelopment of the Winter Gardens complex.

The council acquired the Grade II-listed Winter Gardens from the Leisure Parcs, together with the Blackpool Tower, as part of a £38.9m refurbishment deal in March.

The refurbishment of both attractions was saved from the Government's spending cuts last month, which meant the Winter Gardens could undergo a first phase restoration and upgrading programme to create a new multi-purpose conferencing venue for events and functions.

The three-year architectural contract, worth between £50,000 and £250,000, involves a range of services throughout these redevelopment works from advisory and feasibility work through to a full architectural service, in accordance with the RIBA work stages.

Deadline for submitting tenders is 12pm next Monday 2 August.

A £10m programme of repairs is planned for the Tower with the first phase of the project expected to be completed in time for the beginning of the 2011 tourism season.

The £38.9m investment was divided between the Northwest European Regional Development Fund, which has contributed £14m, North West Development Agency, £7.9m, Blackpool Council, £10m, and the Homes & Communities Agency, £7m.