The purpose of the Expression of Interest (EOI) request is to identify suitably qualified head building contractors for the construction of improvements to the existing Morpeth Courthouse (Museum) located at 123 Swan Street, Morpeth. The proposed improvements to the museum are defined as Stage 2 Works, following completion of Stage 1 Works during 2022-2023.

The EOI is the first stage of a two-stage selective tender process for Stage 2 Works. Council proposes to invite a shortlist of Respondents to tender in the second stage.

The broad scope of Stage 2 Works at the museum is:

1. Provision of new unisex accessible toilet and baby change facilities and a cleaner's store will replace the existing non-compliant sanitary facilities at the rear of the museum.

2. A new weatherproof shelter will be constructed central to the rear yard area. This structure will interpret the original police stable's structure that once occupied the site relating to its former use as the courthouse.

3. The combined new stable roof & landscaping will allow the museum to host educational events outdoors, especially for school children. Audio visual exhibitions will also be possible.

4. The new landscaping works in the rear yard area will provide an enhanced connection between the museum and Northumberland Street, along with The Noel & Daphne Unicomb Park on the neighbouring site to the east.

5. Overall equitable access will be improved with the creation of the new entry points at the proposed building addition, both of which will be accessible to people with disabilities (the current entry off Swan Street is not accessible).

6. The new landscaping will incorporate some of the museum's stored collection (e.g. old railway signal).

7. The new rear yard work will also address the previously experienced poor stormwater drainage issues and reduce moisture in and around the building, thus maintaining conservation objectives and reducing Council's associated building maintenance costs.

8. The project also includes some modifications to the dry fire services and fire extinguisher allocation inside the existing building.