Development of non-residential real estate

Tender description

Please see point II.2.4 of this Notice. The appointment by the British Library Board of a development partner to create a development of a mixed-use development providing new public spaces for the British Library and a headquarters for the Alan Turing Institute, alongside extensive space for diverse commercial uses. The development is of a 2.8 acre site at the northern end of the British Library’s freehold estate at St Pancras, London to extend and complement its current Grade I listed building. The British Library’s requirements (and the constraints on the site helping, in part, to inform the requirements) were set out in the original Contract Notice and the tender documents issued at that time (including the design brief (reflecting an original “proof of concept” for the development), project description and draft heads of terms (the original draft heads of terms having been revised to reflect the progress of the dialogue phase, and clarifications issued during dialogue and following the call for final tenders). The updated heads of terms, together with the other documents comprising the “Template Contract Pack” issued with the invitation to submit final tenders have provided the basis of the development agreement that the Library intends to enter with the proposed contractor. In summary, the key requirements of the procurement were: — to achieve a development of exceptional architectural distinction to extend and complement architect, Colin St John Wilson's landmark building and its Grade I Listed building designation, — approximately 100 000 square foot for the British Library’s own use and as the headquarters of the Alan Turing Institute (as “shell and core” space, ready for fit-out), and — in return for a long lease of the development site the British Library must receive payment of: — capital receipt, and — a share in the achieved rental. A comprehensive approach to the site is required, including exceptional standards of architectural, urban and environmental design that respect local context, character and heritage assets, in particular the character, appearance and setting of the Grade I listed British Library building to the south and others nearby. High quality landscaping and public realm is required, as well as high standards of access which minimise the impacts on local residents and do not compromise the quality of local public routes and spaces; and taking careful account of community engagement with particular reference to nearby Levita house, Somers Town and Camden. A prior information notice was originally issued, followed by a pre-qualification questionnaire to select a shortlist of three bidders that were invited to take part in the dialogue. All 3 participated in the rounds of dialogue until its closing. The British Library used its BRAVO e-Tendering system for the procurement.