Hull is located on a flood plain where the River Hull meets the Humber Estuary, and has a growing population of around 250,000 people. Around 90 per cent of its built-up areas sit below the high-tide line, increasing the risk of significant flooding.
Key aims of the latest project include delivering environmental improvements, assisting with the post-pandemic recovery, respecting Hull’s historic environment and ‘encouraging active travel to change habits and behaviours to achieve sustainable economic, social, and environmental benefits.’
According to the brief: ‘The multidisciplinary design team should be led by an accredited landscape architect, urban designer or streetscape specialist, with relevant experience in the design of high quality, multi-functional public spaces.
The phased project – set to complete in 2026 – aims to deliver ‘high-quality, inclusive, multi-functional public spaces’ which improve Hull’s relationship to its waterfront while also boosting pedestrian links between existing visitor attractions.
In 2019, emerging Newcastle practice Harper Perry Architects won a RIBA ideas competition for a flood-resilient development in Hull. In 2018, Purcell won a contest for a £27.4 million project to redevelop some of Hull’s historic nautical attractions, including the city’s Grade II*-listed Maritime Museum.
In 2020, Hull City Council launched a search for an architect for a £1.1 million residential-led revamp of its historic old town. The project aims to reduce retail vacancy rates within the old town which features a large number of listed historic buildings by introducing new uses such as housing to increase overall activity within the zone.
Bids to deliver the contract will be evaluated 70 per cent on quality and 30 per cent on cost. Applicants must hold employer’s Liability Insurance of £5 million, Public Liability Insurance of £10 million and Professional Indemnity Insurance of £3 million.
Competition details
The landscape architect or urban designer-led multidisciplinary team selected for the estimated £700,000 contract will draw up plans to improve Princes Dock Street, Humber Dock Street (pictured) and part of Hull High Street.
‘Heritage expertise is also essential to ensure that the design respects and responds to the historic environment as well as providing opportunities for storytelling and public art.’
Project title Multi Disciplinary Design Team Consultancy for the Hull City Centre Public Realm Improvements, Kingston upon Hull
Client Hull City Council
Contract value £700,000
First round deadline Midday, 7 September 2023
Restrictions Applicants must provide details of up to three contracts, in any combination from either the public or private sector; voluntary, charity or social enterprise that are relevant to our requirement. Contracts for supplies or services should have been performed during the past three years. Works contracts may be from the past five years
More information https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/022839-2023