The existing gallery is to undergo substantial two-phase re-modelling of its existing building’s learning and roof terrace areas.

BAM will also create a new build 1200m2 extension situated  west of the gallery, and below the Barnoon car park. BAM will create  a new gallery space for temporary exhibitions, as well improved art handling and additional visitor facilities. The new and existing building will be linked to allow visitors to move from one to the other.

The appointment was made under the Construction Framework South West, after competition with other contractors. BAM commenced enabling works in October 2014 and has been discussing the detailed design of the main project works. These now commence in June, and so complex and delicate is the detail of the programme that works conclude in Spring 2017.

In an echo of history, BAM was the contractor behind the original Tate Britain building in 1893, and it has an extensive experience with museums and historic buildings (see notes). The project will be managed on a day-to-day basis by David Hawkins, who worked on BAM’s recent new build of the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford.

“This is a stunning building. Not only does it require the highest standards and finishes to protect and enhance the display of priceless artworks but it is also logistically very challenging because of the access constraints.

“We’ll be working with BAM’s specialist services engineering company which now covers the West of England and Wales, and the existing gallery of the Tate Gallery will be open for much of the build, closing only for structural works during the winter.

“It is a true signature job. We’re very proud to be chosen to deliver something this special in such a beautiful location that will please so many people.”

Graham Kingdon

BAM’s Construction Director

During enabling works, BAM has already removed 1000m3 of blue Elvan rock, conducted significant temporary works, and extended the retaining walls.

The new building will have exposed concrete finishes and granite cladding to engender sympathy with surrounding local buildings.

A number of other partners with strong credentials on historic buildings are involved – two firms of architects – the original architects of the Museum, Evans and Shalev, and Jamie Fobert (see note). Structural engineering will be conducted by Price and Myers who worked with BAM on the University of the Arts Building at Kings Cross. Mechanical and electrical services are provided by Max Fordham and project management and quantity surveying will both be carried out by Sweett Group.