We have awarded the contract for the architects that will lead the design team for the first phase of restoration to Purcell Architecture Ltd.
Purcell are known for their experience of restoring heritage sites and incorporating environmental sustainability into their designs.
They also have extensive experience with heritage architecture and cast-iron structures, with a good understanding of the challenges involved in bringing sustainable practices to a heritage restoration project.
Their portfolio of restoration work includes major heritage sites, such as the Houses of Parliament, the Elizabeth Tower (the tower that hosts the bell Big Ben) and Canterbury Cathedral.
Iron work experience
The Purcell team based in the Canterbury office have considerable experience of restoring iron work.
Their work at the Palace of Westminster includes overseeing the ten year rolling programme of repairs to all cast iron roofs at the palace, conserving and restoring the bronze windows and supporting the design team and contractors to ensure that upgrades are sensitive to the historic fabric.
Design team brief
We are currently in the process of procuring the rest of the design team to join the architects to explore options and produce detailed plans for the project (up to RIBA stage 4).
Once the planning application is approved and working drawings finalised the restoration work on site can be tendered to a contractor.
As part of developing the proposals, the architect and design team will meet with a range of stakeholders including the Advisory Panel set up by the community to work with the council on developing plans for the restoration of Madeira Terrace.
MT30 Project
This first phase of restoration is known as the MT30 project based on the idea that designs are made for the restoration of 30 arches of the 151-arch structure.
We anticipate restoration of the whole terrace is likely to be undertaken in five phases over the coming years.
The MT30 project is based on a heritage led restoration of the existing structure and will establish the concept of regeneration and restoration for the whole of the terrace, helping the council meet its pledge for the city to become carbon neutral by 2030.
Circular economy principles
A real challenge for the project is to embed ‘Circular Economy’ principles in the restoration.
The ambition for Madeira Terrace is to creatively re-purpose it as a year-round place for sustainable tourism, leisure, recreation and culture.
The MT30 project will embed Circular Economy principles in the restoration and demonstrate environmental sustainability throughout its construction and operation.
This approach has been identified by the Architects Journal as pioneering and is in line with our pledge for the city to become carbon neutral by 2030.
Council leader Councillor Nancy Platts said: "The appointment of the architect is a positive step towards restoring the Madeira Terrace arches.
“Purcell have an excellent track record in restoration and I'm delighted that they are going to work on Madeira Terrace, helping to bring the backdrop of our city to life again.”
James Farrell, of the Madeira Terrace Advisory Panel said: “The announcement of the architect being appointed is a great step forward for the Madeira Terrace restoration project.
“As a member of the Advisory Panel, I am looking forward to working with them to restore the terrace for a better future for our city’s seafront.”