The winner of the £60,000 contract will draw up plans for a major overhaul of the local history museum, which occupies a former Georgian town house on Lower High Street near Watford town centre.
The project – dubbed Making Connections and planned to complete in 2019 –will refurbish the landmark building; improve displays, storage and accessibility; and deliver a modern extension.
According to the brief: ‘The Making Connections project looks at improving all aspects of the museum and the services it provides. It will enable a transformation of the layout and displays, improve visitor access and enjoyment, better conserve and exhibit the collections and reduce energy costs.
The Grade II-listed mansion was built in 1775, and later became part of a brewery before being transformed into offices. It was converted into Watford Museum in 1981.
The museum holds around 30,000 items in its collection, covering local history, archaeology, art, and costume from pre-history times to the present day. Since opening, the museum has been fitted with new alarms and CCTV, but has yet to receive a major overhaul, with many displays still in their original form.
The latest project will transform the building into an ‘engaging heritage hub for the local community’ featuring new displays and events facilities. A learning area for schools and new visitor facilities will also be delivered.
Separate lots are seeking a part-time project co-ordinator, audience consultant, business plan consultant, collections conservator, conservation plan consultant, museum display designer and access audit consultant.
Bidders must hold employers liability insurance of £10 million, public liability insurance worth £5 million and professional indemnity insurance cover of £2 million.
The deadline for applications is noon, 8 May.