Agenda item

Report of the Executive Director, Community and Children’s Services.

The Committee received a report of the Executive Director, Community and Children’s Services in respect of the appointment of a Forensic Architect (Expert Witness) at Ben Jonson House.

Officers advised that the review would be split into two phases. The key deliverable for the Expert Witness would be determining the liability for costs in the first phase. The identification of costs of remedial works would take place in the second phase, and this activity would be more likely undertaken by a surveyor.

Members felt that the Expert Witness would need to be conservation accredited, as well as having knowledge of 20^th Century buildings. It was noted that, in addition to being aware of the most recent guidance, conservation architects would be aware of any guidance that was relevant at the time of any repair. They would also have a specialist skillset in identifying defects and specialist repairs.

The Committee welcomed the approach and noted that other houses would reserve judgement until the outcome of the Ben Jonson House review was known.

Members sought clarification on the apportionment of cost and were advised that this would not be determined formally until the finalised scope and terms of reference had been approved.

RESOLVED, that – the report be received and its contents noted.