Calderdale Council is inviting bids for construction work for the the main scheme, which has a price tag of £15m to £20m. A single main contractor will be appointed to deliver both the transformation of the Piece Hall and build Halifax's new central library and archive. The grade I listed Piece Hall - the sole survivor of the great 18th century northern cloth halls - will be restored to create a visitor attraction that will include a learning centre, a new east extension and a re-designed courtyard.
"This is a significant milestone for the Piece Hall on its journey to become a world class heritage destination, said councillor Tim Swift, the leader of Calderdale Council. "The Piece Hall is unique and requires significant conservation and restoration experience, while the library will be an iconic, sustainable building and must deliver a first rate service for its users. It is essential we employ the right people with appropriate skills and experience to work on both of these prestigious buildings."
A project for the adjacent Square Chapel has also been put out to tender. Bids are also being sought for a £5m to £7m scheme that will build a new extension to the Square Chapel arts centre, joining it to the Piece Hall. The Square Chapel arts centre is housed in a grade II* listed building, believed to be the last remaining square church in England. The new extension will provide a second 100 seat auditorium and a café.
Details in The Construction Index Contract Leads section:
Piece Hall, library and archive
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