City of London launches £50m Barbican MEP renewal tender

7 days ago

1 min read

The City of London Corporation has launched a £50m tender for the mechanical, electrical and public health renewal package forming part of the wider Barbican Renewal Programme.

The contract covers the strip-out and replacement of life-expired MEP infrastructure across the occupied Barbican Centre, including basement plant areas and public spaces throughout the complex.

The package will be delivered under a JCT CM/TC 2024 Trade Contract, with Blue Sky Building appointed as Construction Manager and Gardiner & Theobald acting as Lead Consultant.

Works will span several areas including:

MEP infrastructure and site-wide systems
Conservatory
Art Gallery Foyer
Curve Gallery
Main Foyers
Stair 8
Catering Block

The project will require extensive phased working around the continued operation of the Barbican Centre, which includes a concert hall, cinemas, galleries, conservatory, library, function rooms and car parks.

A 12-month full closure period from the end of June 2028 is also planned to allow major renewal works to progress.

The Barbican is classified as a Higher-Risk Building under the Building Safety Act 2022, meaning the successful contractor will also be required to meet relevant Building Safety Regulator and Gateway requirements.

The contract is expected to start in February 2027 and run until September 2029, with provision for extension to March 2030 if required.

Up to four suppliers will be invited to tender following the initial selection stage.

Bids will be assessed on 45% technical quality, 40% commercial and 15% responsible procurement, including climate action and social value.

Requests to participate must be submitted by 12 October 2026.