Access Consultant

Tender description

We are seeking to appoint an Access Consultant as part of a team to redevelop parts of our Gardens and Natural History Galleries. Total budget for the project, including fees but excluding VAT, is c£8.9m. The project is due for completion in early 2026 (dependent on the availability of funding) and is the next phase of a long-term strategic plan to widen and extend access, public facilities and increase exhibition space within the Horniman. One of the core project objectives is to become more inclusive by widening our audience to better match the diversity of the London population. Over the past two years, extensive research and consultation with diverse audiences has told us that a love of nature and time spent in natural environments is a value we all share. It is essential therefore that the design and specification of all elements of the project meets high accessibility standards, as well as reducing our environmental impact and ensuring that all materials specified are either recycled and reused or obtained from environmentally sound and sustainable sources. We are looking to commission an Access Consultant to help us develop and implement an access strategy / plan for the project. They will advise and support the development and delivery of the Nature + Love project, which must be accessible to the broadest possible audience, with a focus on inclusive design. We expect physical, sensory and intellectual barriers to be removed wherever possible and alternative routes to access provided where possible. All building, landscape and exhibition design should adhere to recognised accessibility guidelines, for example; British Standards BS 8300:2009 Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people code of practise. All interpretation should incorporate current best practise guidance on accessibility. Tender information required : • Three case studies of projects of a similar nature and scale undertaken within the last 10 years • References for the case studies highlighted • An outline approach and methodology for the development and implementation of an access strategy /plan for the project, including a strategy for consultation and involvement • A timetable, including milestones and dates, taking into account the need to involve and consult people • An outline approach and relevant experience of working with sustainability considerations in mind. • Names and CV's of the proposed Project Partner/Director and key support team members including qualifications and experience • Health and safety, environmental and equal opportunities policies • Company accounts for the last three years • Confirmation of insurances held • Company history • A staged fee proposal including expenses based on the Project Timing outline at 4.3 of the Brief. Please return the required information in writing (marked Confidential Tender) to the following address, or electronically to kwalker@horniman.ac.uk by 12.00 on the 11 April 2022