Scope
Description
Gun Wharf Refurbishment - Project Overview (Brief)
Gun Wharf, a Grade II listed building designed by Arup Associates and completed in 1978, presents a unique challenge: modernising a historically significant structure while preserving its architectural integrity. This refurbishment project seeks to enhance several key areas, including the entrance reception, canteen, restrooms, external social spaces, and car park. A central objective is to improve the spatial relationships within the building to foster a more cohesive and efficient working environment.
The initial driver for the refurbishment was the need to address Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) issues, ensuring the building's long-term structural integrity. While this issue is now being resolved, the project also presents an opportunity to deliver broader improvements.
A major focus is the proposed upgrade to mechanical and electrical (M&E) systems, aimed at enhancing the building's atmosphere, safety, and sustainability. Remaining fluorescent lighting will be replaced with energy-efficient LED fixtures, prioritising dedicated luminaires over less effective retrofit solutions. External lighting will be redesigned and upgraded, with feature lighting introduced in the reception and canteen areas to create more welcoming and visually engaging spaces. Enhanced lighting controls will support flexible schemes and maximise energy savings.
This refurbishment represents a significant investment in Medway Council's civic infrastructure. By tackling essential maintenance, improving energy performance, and optimising the workspace, the project will ensure Gun Wharf remains a functional, sustainable, and welcoming public building for years to come.
The attached outline drawings provide an initial indication of the proposed refurbishment approach.
Anticipated Date:
•Issue Tender Documents 28th November 2025
•Appoint Contractor 20th April 2026
•Start on Site 18th May 2026
•Sectional Completion: Section 1 - 21st December 2026
•Sectional Completion: Section 2 - 24th September 2027
Section 1 includes completion of Level 5, Level 4, the north side of Level 3 (includes the Canteen and Council Chambers) and the reception area.
Exclusions / Assumptions
1.The programme is based on estimated costs as the full extent of the works have not been determined by the client and may be subject to design refinement and value engineering.
2.Design development between Stage 4A and Stage 4B is excluded from this programme.
3.The Programme is subject to change and redefining of priorities.
Anticipated Budget
Overall Contract Budget would be in the region for £15-£16 million
To view this notice, please click here:
https://www.kentbusinessportal.org.uk/delta/viewNotice.html?noticeId=987843056
Total value (estimated)
- £16,000,000 excluding VAT
- £19,200,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 18 May 2026 to 24 September 2027
- 1 year, 4 months, 7 days
Main procurement category
Works
CPV classifications
- 45213100 - Construction work for commercial buildings
Contract locations
- UKJ41 - Medway
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
28 November 2025
Enquiry deadline
23 January 2026, 5:00pm
Tender submission deadline
23 January 2026, 5:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
20 April 2026
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Contracting authority
Medway Council
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PWYH-3898-LDQR
Medway Council Gun Wharf, Dock Road
Chatham
ME4 4TR
United Kingdom
Contact name: Nigel Ford
Email: nigel.ford@medway.gov.uk
Region: UKJ41 - Medway
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government