Principal Designer and Project Lead for the Refurbishment of Aberkenfig Library

Description

Awen Cultural Trust seeks to appoint a Principal Designer and project lead to develop costed, tender-ready plans for the refurbishment of Aberkenfig Library, along with the subsequent procurement of contractor and management of works. The aim is to create a modern, fit-for-purpose library and community hub with a range of environmental improvements. The aim is to have the necessary deliverables in place to realise the project according to the funding timescales and requirements of Welsh Government’s Transformation Capital Grant scheme. Awen wish to appoint a Principal Architect/project lead to act as Principal Designer (CDM 2015) and coordinate a team capable of fulfilling the roles below in response to the scale and objectives of the brief. Core disciplines and specialisms Architect – produce plans, advise on any planning considerations, planning application if required. Structural Engineer – to advise as necessary. Building Services (MEP) Engineer – heating/ventilation improvements, small power, data, accessibility systems; advice on low‑energy solutions. Cost Consultant / QS – provide cost planning, value engineering, risk allowances and procurement options. Principal Designer (CDM) – pre‑construction information, design risk management, and H&S file. Design Brief – Outcomes Required Main Library Removal of existing counter (smaller staff desk to be relocated elsewhere). Note that the fit-out of the library space will be considered separately. Options to improve the foyer area to present a more welcoming and useable space. Incorporate a meeting room (capacity c.8-10 persons) within the ground floor footprint, potentially in the existing children’s area. Incorporate a small, confidential room (capacity c.2 persons) within the ground floor footprint. Advice on possible lighting improvements. Additional power/data as required. New flooring and redecoration throughout. Sanitary Provision Improvement to existing staff WC. Creation of accessible Changing Places-type WC for public use. Creation of a unisex public WC. Staff Area New flooring and redecoration as necessary. Storage - provision of storage space to support office and workspace functions. Environmental & Sustainability Improvements New windows throughout. Replace existing gas boiler with air-source heat pump providing heating and air-conditioning, including new radiators. Installation of solar PV panels to roof. Installation of battery storage. Inclusivity & Operations Consideration to Equality Act 2010, applicable Building Regulations and inclusive-design requirements in Wales; dementia‑aware design cues; pram/buggy parking; storage rationalisation to keep spaces uncluttered. The outcomes indicated above cover the expected scope of the refurbishment project at the time of writing. We will be happy to discuss with the designer any proposed amendments to the above to improve the scheme and/or meet the financial envelope. Deliverables Phase 1 The following are indicative of the deliverables required but can be flexed to meet the scale and eventual design of the project and programme. Concept Design RIBA Stage 3 level or equivalent report suitable for project of this scale, with drawings as required for funding application Stage‑3 level cost plan with options and risk allowances, sufficient for funding application. Coordinated GA drawings, room data sheets, interior schedules (finishes, ironmongery), technical sections. Planning Consents and support for funding submission Deliverables Phase 2 Technical Design for Minor Works Contract Full tender pack: specifications (including interior spec), coordinated drawings, schedules (FF&E, lighting, AV, MEP). Pre‑construction information (CDM), design risk register, and contractor tender queries support. Management and advisory during procurement/construction (PCSA, design queries). Surveys & Information (to be allowed for) Measured survey (if existing data insufficient) and opening‑up

Key facts

Reference

NOV675116

Procedure

Single stage

Category

SERVICES