Prior Information Notice - 1617-0073 – Pilot – 173 Highbury Quadrant Passivhaus retrofit & new build

This is a Prior Information Notice (PIN) for information only. It is not a formal invitation to tender. You will need to respond to the contract notice in order to be considered for this contract. The purpose of this PIN is to maximise transparency and competition for the upcoming contract notice. All details in this PIN are subject to being updated or changed in the final contract notice.

Providing affordable housing is a key priority for Islington. The Council is also keen to pursue design concepts that deliver highly energy efficient homes which at the same time will reduce the building’s overall ecological footprint. These principles are central to the Passivhaus concept which will provide a high level of occupant comfort while using very little energy for heating and cooling. This pilot scheme will enable the Council to assess the financial and performance benefits of Passivhaus standards for further consideration / inclusion for future schemes. These schemes carried out elsewhere have indicated that savings on energy bills in excess of 75% can be achieved, while providing healthy, condensation free and comfortable homes for the occupants.

The project involves the refurbishment of a four (4) storey end of terrace Victorian house containing a number of converted flats, to the appropriate Passivhaus standards for existing properties (the EnerPHit standards). In addition a new build house will be developed on the garden land to the side of the existing property which will be built to the Passivhaus standards.

The estimated value of the contract is £1.3m. This will be advertised as a traditional build contract only. The Passivhaus architect will assume full responsibility for a detailed design. The contractor will be expected to build to the Passivhaus standard and the specific requirements provided by the architect. The contractor is not expected to have Passivhaus experience or training prior to bidding but some specific training will be required prior to start on site. The contractor will need to provide valid certification to demonstrate that the relevant members of staff have acquired the specified training and are suitably qualified to undertake Passivhaus work.