The project: Birmingham: its people, its history (previously known as ‘A City in the Making’) explores the history of the development of the city, and the people who live there.
The Development of an innovative new wing of galleries 37-42 within the existing Grade II* Listed Building BM&AG.
Work included the remodelling of the Oculus entrance way, creating a column of natural light, and supporting artwork suspended from the roof light. Subsequent work included installation of improved mechanical and electrical services in line with new building regulations, finishing with ornate plasterwork finishes to adhere to the Grade II* Listed Building’s requirements.
The scale
Overall project costs of circa £9m, including both construction works and exhibition. Funded by Birmingham City Council (BCC) and the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).
The challenge
Value for money was key to each two funding parties on behalf of the Client BM&AG. This was achieved by implementing value management processes throughout project stages – from implementation to completion, ensuring good value and effective design.
BCC funding restrictions stipulated that use of the City Council’s Contractor Framework should be utilised in the procurement and construction of the building works. This rose doubt in terms of value for money by the HLF.
We were able to use the NEC3: Option C and a partnering design and build procurement route to demonstrate value for money in the construction market through:
Partnering procurement, negotiated overheads and profit through the tendering period; betterment on the pre-agreed BCC Framework rates.
Early contractor involvement; benefiting value and risk management, buildability issues and easy involvement for structural surveys defining and reducing the complex structural risks of the works.
Complete open costings of all prices and quantities.
Review of all preliminaries costs to confirm these adhere to the NEC3: Option C Contracts definition of actual cost incurred.
Delivery
Support of the wider BM&AG project sponsorship team, providing pre and post-contract cost management services in a complex live environment.
OUTCOMES
£9m
overall project budget
HLF
(Heritage Lottery Fund) funded
Grade II*
listed building
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