DESIGN CONTEST
ENHANCING THE VISITOR EXPERIENCE IN THE ĠGANTIJA HERITAGE PARK WORLD HERITAGE SITE
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION, CULTURE, YOUTH AND SPORT
00 CONTENTS
00 CONTENTS ...... 2
01 PREFACE ...... 3
02 HERITAGE MALTA ...... 4
03 ERDF 032 PROJECT ...... 5
04 PROJECT BRIEF ...... 7
05 CONTEST REGULATIONS ...... 24
06 ORGANISATION AND CO -ORDINATION OF THE CONTEST ...... 33
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 2 OF 47
01 PREFACE The Ġgantija Temples, part of the Megalithic Temples of Malta UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just one of the many sites of historical and cultural significance in the village of Xag ħra, Gozo. Presently, these sites, even though visited by 150,000 persons yearly, lack the necessary visitor infrastructure. Hence, through the Archaeological Heritage Conservation Project part-financed by the European Union European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), funding was sought to construct an Interpretation Centre to act as a hub for all visitors coming to Xag ħra, including a permanent display of the very important artefacts, dating back to the prehistoric period, unearthed from the excavations in these sites. The project also includes the general upgrading of the visitor’s infrastructure within the Ġgantija Heritage Park.
This project enjoys the support of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sport and the Ministry for Gozo , which are considering the safeguarding of the Ġgantija Temples, as well as the Xag ħra Stone Circle, Ta’ Kola Windmill and Għar ta’ Għej żu, amongst others, as a top priority because of their cultural and scientific values, and their pivotal role in promoting and marketing Malta’s cultural identity.
This Architectural Design Contest is organised by Heritage Malta under the auspices of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sport and the Ministry for Gozo.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 3 OF 47
02 HERITAGE MALTA “The mission of Heritage Malta is to ensure that those elements of the cultural heritage entrusted to it are protected and made accessible to the public. The Agency also operates a Conservation Division for the training of conservators and conservation scientists.” [Cultural Heritage Act (Malta) 2002]
Heritage Malta (HM) is the national agency of the Government of Malta set up in 2002 under the provisions of the Cultural Heritage Act and entrusted with the management of national museums and heritage sites and their related collections in Malta and Gozo, including seven sites inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Following the recognition of four key aspects of national cultural heritage, namely management, conservation, interpretation and marketing, HM bases all its activities bearing in mind that all our national museums and sites have an important role to play in education, learning, access and the generation of revenue to be reinvested into the heritage sector.
HM therefore seeks to act as a leader for education and outreach programmes not only by supporting school based learning, but also by encouraging people of all ages and backgrounds to broaden their horizons through the museums’ collections. This is carried out, among others, by developing a programme of events to develop museums as active and inclusive cultural centres. Most importantly, HM is committed to provide physical and intellectual access to a wider audience in all its sites and museums by enhancing access to its various publics and by facilitating the interpretation of its sites and collections. HM is also aware that heritage can act as a catalyst for Malta’s tourism potential and consequently contribute significantly to the economy. It therefore seeks to improve both the service and the experience of all visitors in order to foster a more favourable image on a national and international level.
As from 2005, following an amendment to the Cultural Heritage Act, all activities previously carried out by the former Malta Centre for Restoration have been taken over by HM. The building at Bighi now houses the Conservation Division of Heritage Malta as well as the Institute of Conservation and Management of Cultural Heritage (ICMCH), which is entrusted with the organisation of academic courses at various levels. It is to this effect that Heritage Malta’s Mission Statement was amended accordingly.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 4 OF 47
03 ERDF 032 PROJECT P.A. 2 – Promoting sustainable tourism
03.1 ERDF032 – ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT The Archaeological Heritage Conservation Project , which Heritage Malta is currently undertaking, will cost €9.2 million and 85% of this amount is financed through the European Regional Development Fund (Priority Axis 2– Promoting sustainable tourism - Cohesion Policy 2007 – 2013, Operational Programme I - Investing in Competitiveness for a Better Quality of Life), includes works on three sites, namely the Tarxien Temples (Tarxien), the Ġgantija Archaeological Park (Xag ħra, Gozo) and St. Paul’s Catacombs (Rabat). The project duration is from January 2008 to March 2013.
The Archaeological Heritage Conservation Project will see the embellishment and conservation of two sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the 'Maltese Megalithic Temples Inscription', Ġgantija and Tarxien Temples, as well as St Paul's Catacombs which are an outstanding example of Malta's Catacombs and are on the Tentative List for future inscription as a World Heritage Site. These sites, which form a core part of Malta’s cultural tourism product, will be upgraded through the provision of essential tourist amenities including: • An Interpretation Centre incorporating all amenities and interpretation facilities at Ġgantija Temples (a welcoming orientation point to the cultural resources on the Xag ħra plateau) and St Paul’s Catacombs. • Walkways which will provide access for all around the sites, whilst protecting original floors and surfaces.
The sites will also be upgraded through measures for their better preservation, including: • The installation of a protective shelter over the Tarxien Temples which will ensure its long-term effective protection from the major causes of its deterioration. • The installation of environmental mitigation equipment to sustain the conservation requirements of the subterranean areas of St. Paul’s Catacombs. • The installation of specialised lighting systems that will eliminate as well as stabilise biological organism growth that are currently defacing the catacombs. • A structural analysis of the Ġgantija Temples with special emphasis on areas currently supported by shoring in order to ensure the structural stability and preservation of the monument.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 5 OF 47
Hence, the aims behind this project are to enhance the significance of these sites by investing in the optimal methods and materials available for their conservation and interpretation. Furthermore, the interventions carried out through this project will assist in raising the level of awareness and knowledge of national heritage.
03.2 PROJECT SCOPE The aim of the €2.5million (excl VAT) project at the Ġgantija Heritage Park, as proposed by Heritage Malta, is to:
1. Present an organised, pleasant and sustainable experience, to the circa 150,000 yearly visitors, while also attending to any preventive conservation measures which the temples and park require 2. Facilitate circulation including both pedestrian and vehicular movement outside the site and, visitor circulation within the site 3. Highlight the landscape setting of the site 4. Remove and mitigate past interventions which have a negative impact on the setting
The expected outcome after the implementation of the ERDF project, with respect to the Ġgantija Temples and surrounding areas, include:
• Construction of an Interpretation Centre at the Ġgantija Heritage Park, incorporating a permanent display focusing on Gozo’s prehistory, (children) activity area, administration and other basic amenities for Visitors • An ‘Exit Point’ including a souvenir shop and other basic amenities for visitors to the Heritage Park • Pathways to link the Interpretation Centre to the Temples, and the Temples to the ‘Exit Point’ • Rehabilitation and landscaping of the Heritage Park, including the restoration and rebuilding of approximately 200m of rubble wall.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 6 OF 47
04 PROJECT BRIEF
04.1 PURPOSE OF THE CONTEST The purpose of the Contest is to generate:
• A Masterplan of the Ġgantija Heritage Park and the immediate surroundings with respect to vehicular and visitor circulation, within and around the Park • Design the Interpretation Centre • Propose a pathway, including the surrounding landscaping scheme, linking the Interpretation Centre to the Ġgantija Temples to the ‘Exit Point’ • Design the ‘Exit Point’
All design proposals must give foremost importance to the respect and the safeguarding of the Outstanding Universal Value of the Ġgantija Temples and their setting, as well as the impact on the surrounding urban context.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 7 OF 47
04.2 THE SITE
04.2.1 XAG ĦRA
Xag ħra lies on top of a plateau, which overlooks the plain to the south of Gozo and a number of promontories and valleys on the north. The skyline of the village is dominated by the parish church which is visible from many areas in central Gozo. Ta’ Kola Windmill, one of the few surviving windmills from the Knights period (1530 – 1798), overlooks the eastern side of the village. A significant proportion of the older part of the settlement has retained the traditional characteristics.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 8 OF 47
04.2.2 THE SITE
2
4
1
3
The (triangular) site, earmarked for the construction of the Interpretation Centre, is located Northwest to the Ġgantija Temples, within the precincts of the Ġgantija Heritage Park. Hence, the Interpretation Centre will serve as a centre for all the sites of cultural significance in the vicinity, which apart from the ĠGANTIJA Temples [1] and the Ta’ Kola Windmill [2], also includes the Xag ħra Stone Circle [3] and l-Għar ta’ G ħej żu [4] .
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 9 OF 47
04.2.3 SITES OF HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
4.2.3.1 The Ġgantija Temples The Ġgantija Temples are one of the most important archaeological sites in the Maltese Islands. Their listing on the UNESCO World Heritage List, in 1980 (the first temples to be inscribed), makes them a site of universal significance. They are enclosed by a common massive boundary wall. Some of the megaliths exceed five metres in length. The origins of Ġgantija date back to around 3600 B.C., with the larger temple being the first to be built.
The megalithic site of Ġgantija must always have raised some curiosity in the local population, and even before it was first excavated by Colonel John Otto Bayer in 1827, the gigantic ruins were for a long time associated with a mysterious race of giants, eventually giving rise to the name of the site, “ ġgant” being Maltese for giant. From as early as the 16th century down to the present day, Ġgantija has always attracted visitors to the island, and thanks to notable artists and distinguished visitors, we are in possession of priceless drawings and paintings of the site even before its excavation in the early 19th century.
The hard-wearing locally-quarried coralline limestone is used extensively at Ġgantija, and is one of the reasons behind the preservation of the monument. The softer Globigerina limestone is reserved for inner furnishings such as doorways, altars, and decorative slabs. The architectural style is typical of the Maltese megalithic temples and consists of a number of apses flanking a central corridor. The inwardly inclined walls suggest that the temples were roofed over, possibly making use of timber beams, reeds and clay for waterproofing. There is evidence for the internal walls to have been plastered and painted over, as proven by two plaster fragments with red ochre originating from Ġgantija and preserved at the Gozo Museum of Archaeology.
Excavations have brought to light the remains of animal bone, thus suggesting some sort of ritual involving animal sacrifice. The use of fire is evidenced by the presence of stone hearths. The innermost sections of the temples were possibly screened off from the outer parts. It is probable that during ceremonial activities, the congregation would have assembled outside the temple complex, since the large forecourt in front of the two temples was purposely raised by the same temple builders, and is a common feature in Maltese temple architecture. Of particular interest are a small number of prehistoric objects found at Ġgantija, and today preserved at the Gozo Museum of Archaeology. These include two stone heads, in typical artistic style of the Temple Period, a large stone block with a snake relief, and a phallic symbol.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 10 OF 47
4.2.3.2 Ta’ Kola Windmill Ta’ Kola Windmill is situated in the heart of the village of Xag ħra, Gozo, and is one of the few surviving windmills on the Maltese Islands dating back to the Knights’ Period. It takes us a step back in time to the trade of the miller, and is a fine example of the rural economy and domestic life of Gozo in bygone times. It was opened to the public as a museum in 1992. The origins of Ta’ Kola Windmill go back to 1725 during the magistracy of Grand Master Manoel de Vilhena (1722-36), and it was constructed by the Manoel Foundation which took its name after that of the same Grand Master. This Foundation was set up to fund windmills in order to sustain the demands of the increasing population of Malta and Gozo. Since its birth, Ta’ Kola Windmill seems to have incorporated bad quality stones and mortar and had to be dismantled and reconstructed during the 1780s. The mill appears to have been a valuable, thriving business since the annual rent for the building increased as it passed from owner to owner.
This windmill changed hands several times up to the early 20th century when it came into ownership of the Grech family, an established family of millers from Mosta, Malta. The Grechs continued to run the windmill up to the 1980s. Ġużeppi Grech, the last of the Grech millers, was responsible for operating and maintaining the structure, and resided in this windmill until his death in 1987. He was an ingenious craftsman and many of the tools on display were created by him. The windmill’s name Ta’ Kola is also synonymous with him since he was popularly known as Żeppu ta’ Kola (Joseph the son of Nikola).
The miller would have been a skilled craftsman probably trained in a wide range of trades. Apart from operating the windmill, he would likely have performed several secondary jobs to keep himself employed when weather conditions meant he was unable to operate the mill. When the wind was favourable for the mill to be operated, the miller would let the locals know by blowing through a triton-shell (Maltese bronja ) in trumpet-like fashion from his rooftop. Villagers would then bring their cereals to be ground into flour. To increase the efficiency of the mill, the external antennae were equipped with large canvas sails.
The construction of Ta’ Kola Windmill follows a plan which is echoed in most Maltese windmills of the period, and consists of a number of rooms on two floors surrounding the centrally-placed cylindrical stone tower. The latter houses the milling mechanism which may be accessed via a spiral staircase. The main set-up consists of two circular hard-wearing stones placed on top of each other to crush the grain forced between the two rotating surfaces.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 11 OF 47
4.2.3.3 Xag ħra Stone Circle The Xag ħra Stone Circle, located a few hundred metres away from the Ġgantija Temples, was recorded by Fr Pelagio Mifsud and European travellers including Jean Houel as far back as the late 18 th century. In the 1820s, Otto Bayer, Governor of Gozo, excavated the site. He found a deep hole with large megalithic structures but by the late 1830s, the site was refilled and lost. In 1825 Charles de Brochtorff produced two water colour paintings of the excavation which were the only record left of the circle until Joseph Attard Tabone located the site again in the mid-1960s. Between 1987 and 1994, scientific excavation works were led by the universities of Bristol and Cambridge together with the University of Malta and the Museums Department.
The site consists of a number of natural caves which were used as an underground cemetery by the Temple people. Its proximity to the Ġgantija Temples mirrors the existence of another underground temple, the Hypogeum, which also lies in close proximity to another ancient site, the Tarxien Temples. The Xag ħra site does not have the Hypogeum’s detailed features as it was cut in weak rock. The few monumental features present consisted of globigerina stones imported from another site. Mourners entered the ritual area through a huge stone entrance and probably walked down a flight of steps into the caves. In the centre was an area enclosed by large stone altars and a massive bowl.
The site has great archaeological value because of the richness of the artefacts found there including a small statue of two figures seated on a bed and a group of nine ‘stick’ figurines, all of which are displayed at the Gozo Museum of Archaeology. In addition to the many small figurines and statue fragments, archaeologists found more than 20,000 bone fragments belonging to at least 850 individuals providing a wealth of information about the ancient inhabitants of Gozo and the rituals they performed.
Nowadays, the site looks very much like any other cave in the Maltese islands. It is surrounded by a protective chain-link fence and is open to the public on request because of conservation reasons resulting from the extremely delicate nature of the site.
4.2.3.4 Għar ta’ G ħej żu
The Għar ta’ G ħej żu is located across the road to the west of the Ġgantija Temples. It is essentially a natural cave which was discovered and cleared in 1933. The archaeological material retrieved from this cave consisted of a large number of sherds mostly belonging to the Ġgantija Phase (3600 – 3200 BC). An interesting find consisted of a sherd showing a schematic human figure with outstretched arms and is on display at the Gozo Museum of Archaeology. This indicates that the cave may have been used by the same prehistoric community at the Ġgantija Temples and the Xag ħra Stone Circle.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 12 OF 47
04.2.4 CLIMATE The climate is typically Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers, warm and sporadically wet autumns, and short, cool winters with adequate rainfall. Nearly three-fourths of the total annual rainfall of about 600 millimetres (24 inches) falls between October and March; June, July, and August are normally quite dry. The temperature is very stable, the annual mean being 18ºC (64ºF) and the monthly averages ranging from 12º C (54ºF) to 31ºC (88ºF). Winds are strong and frequent; the most common are the cool northwesterly ( majjistral ), the dry northeasterly ( grigal , or gregale ), and the hot humid southeasterly ( xlokk , or sirocco ). The relative humidity is consistently high and rarely falls below 40%.
Winters are mild with only rare occurrences of cold weather brought by north and northeast winds from central Europe. In fact, daytime winter temperatures almost never fall below 10ºC (50ºF), while night-time winter temperatures never fall below 0ºC (32ºF). Hence, snow never falls in Malta. Sometimes it gets rather windy for up to 3 days with strong gale force winds blowing either from the northwest (Malta's most common wind) or from the northeast bringing days of miserable stormy weather. Most of Malta's rainfall falls during autumn and winter, mostly from thunderstorms, which make up most of the rainfall from September to December. It is usually mild in Malta during the winter, with plenty of sunshine, too, with daytime temperatures usually 15ºC (59ºF) or above and sometimes also around 20ºC (68ºF).
Summers are warm, dry and very sunny. The weather usually shows signs of warming up in April, heralding in a long spell of hot, dry weather. It rarely rains from April to August. July and August are Malta's hottest months with daytime temperatures usually above 30ºC (86ºF) and quite often also above 35ºC (95ºF). The highest ever was in August 1999 when the temperature once went up to 44ºC (111ºF) in the shade at Luqa Airport. However, since humidity is rather high in Malta (due to the fact that Malta is an island) summer temperatures can feel quite irritating, thereby making it quite often unbearable to stay out in the sun. This is especially so in August and September.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 13 OF 47
04.2.5 VALUES
4.2.5.1 Outstanding Universal Values The aim of the project is to facilitate the sustainable enjoyment of the Ġgantija Temples within their cultural landscape setting. All components of the project must therefore respect the values of the site and its setting, in particular the Outstanding Universal Values on which the World Heritage status of the site is based.
4.2.5.2 World Heritage Values The value of the Ġgantija Temples has been recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1980. In 1992, this inscription was extended to include Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, and the other principal megalithic sites of the Maltese archipelago, collectively referred to as " The Megalithic Temples of Malta ".
The inscription of the Maltese megalithic monuments recognizes that they fulfill criterion ‘iv ’ of the Convention, which requires that a site:
“… be an outstanding example of a type of building or architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history.”
In nominating these monuments for inclusion in the World Heritage List , the Government of Malta has committed itself to safeguard these sites for the enjoyment of present and future generations on behalf of the international community. World Heritage Sites must have adequate protection and management mechanisms to ensure their conservation.
4.2.5.3 Landscape Values The unique site is also of value because of its visual and aesthetic elements; apart from the retention of the archaeological landscape which helps better visualise the relationship of the Temple structures with the surrounding natural environs, the aim behind any proposal is to evoke the original (archaeological) setting. In fact, the proposed scheme for the Heritage Park also includes the demolition of certain accretions which intrude in the sight lines, to and from the Ġgantija Temples. Furthermore, the location of the structures, and the
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 14 OF 47
landscaping proposals, have to respect and enhance the appreciation and reinstatement of the ‘original’ setting, and rectify this where disturbed.
Furthermore, the site is also scheduled for its ecological value, as explained in the policies of the GOZO AND COMINO LOCAL PLAN ( www.mepa.org.mt and Section 04.3.4 ), which aspect needs to be given its due consideration in the proposed schemes.
4.2.5.4 Social Values The Maltese Megalithic Temples, as a group, have become a powerful symbol of Maltese national identity. The unique nature of these structures has made them synonymous with the Maltese islands.
On the other hand, Malta (and Gozo), as a country, has one of the highest population densities in the world. Land use is consequently a highly contested issue. The availability of open spaces for recreation is no exception. Hence, the Ġgantija Heritage Park, is an extensive public open space which can also be available for recreation.
4.2.5.5 Economic Values Tourism has become one of the pillars of the Maltese economy. Cultural tourism is a vital component in the promotion of the Maltese islands as a distinctive holiday destination. The Maltese megalithic monuments are a key component in this strategy. The exceptional character of these monuments makes them important magnets for cultural tourism, and they are heavily relied on to promote Malta as a unique destination for a cultural holiday.
4.2.5.6 Research and Educational Values The Ġgantija temples, as well as the other sites in the vicinity, represent an educational resource of immense potential particularly since there is a dense concentration of natural and cultural resources within a relatively small area.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 15 OF 47
04.3 LEGAL STATUS AND PROTECTION This section outlines the legal status of the park, in terms of land ownership, tenure, and legal protection. The areas within the Ġgantija Heritage Park are protected to different degrees by various mechanisms, including public ownership, cultural heritage legislation, and environmental legislation and planning legislation.
04.3.1 LAND OWNERSHIP AND TENURE The land under consideration is Government Property, which title is however transferred to Heritage Malta .
04.3.2 CULTURAL HERITAGE ACT 2002 The protection of the cultural heritage is regulated by the Cultural Heritage Act (Chapter 445, Laws of Malta). A central concept in this Act is the establishment of the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage , which regulates and supports the management of cultural heritage resources delegated to other bodies.
The body that is delegated with the responsibility to manage the Ġgantija Temples (and Ġgantija Heritage Park), Ta’ Kola Windmill, Xag ħra Stone Circle and Għar ta’ G ħej żu, is Heritage Malta , a government agency which was also set up by the Cultural Heritage Act in order to manage government owned archaeological sites.
04.3.3 ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION ACT 2001 The protection of the environment is regulated in the Environment Protection Act (Chapter 435, Laws of Malta). The Authority responsible for the implementation of this Act is the Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA). The act also obliges the Authority to co-operate with other bodies that are able to contribute to the protection of the environment. This Act makes wide provisions on the duty of the Government and of the public to protect the environment and to manage it in a sustainable way.
Other provisions, which are relevant to the management of the Ġgantija Heritage Park are the protection of biodiversity and all natural resources such as land, water, and landscape.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 16 OF 47
04.3.4 DEVELOPMENT PLANNING ACT 1992 Land-use planning and building is regulated by the Development Planning Act (Chapter 356, Laws of Malta). The Malta Environment and Planning Authority (MEPA) is also responsible for the implementation of this Act.
The ‘ Gozo and Comino Local Plan ’ (July 2006) and the ‘ Structure Plan ’ (1992) can be viewed on www.mepa.org.mt .
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 17 OF 47
04.3.5 THE MASTERPLAN
Visitor coaches/buses/vans will approach the site from Triq il- Mithna , and will stop in the provided lay-bys where they shall be dropped-off at the entrance to the Interpretation Centre . The coaches, etc., will then proceed to the parking area located close to the ‘exit’ from the Ġgantija Heritage Park.
From the Interpretation Centre, visitors will be able to walk along a defined pathway to the Temples.
The visitors will then go through the ‘Exit Point’ to their coach/bus/vans/taxi (parking area).
This route is being proposed in order to improve visitor flow, and avoid an uphill climb back to the Interpretation Centre , also considering the needs of different audiences (elderly people and those with special needs).
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 18 OF 47
04.3.6 FUNCTIONAL BRIEF
The following list identifies the basic functions that need to be included in the proposed structures and shall serve as guidance to the prospective Contestants. Nonetheless, where specified, space requirements are only included for indicative purposes, since it is understood that these shall be influenced/dictated by the proposed concept and scheme layout. Furthermore, the Contestants can propose additional functions and/or uses that complement or enhance the proposed programme, however including all the functions as listed below and strictly complying with the pre-set parameters.
Due to the sensitivity of the site and the context, the design has to ensure the enhancement of the visitor experience within the Ġgantija Heritage Park as well as reduce any potential negative impact, both physically and aesthetically, ensuing from the proposed structures, to ensure the preservation of the site and the reinstatement of the archaeological landscape. Therefore, this implies that the proposed building/structures:
1. shall not be directly visible from any point within the Temples and the immediate surroundings 2. respect a (maximum) height limitation of 4.5m over existing soil level (Interpretation Centre) and 3m (‘Exit Point’) – this maximum external height does not supersede item 1 3. complement and integrate with the rural/cultural context and the surrounding urban fabric 4. incorporate all existing trees and vegetation, which are protected by law, into the design/landscaping scheme 5. keep the scale and massing of the structures to the minimum necessary so as to have negligible physical impact on the site 6. the foundation system must be designed to completely avoid, or minimize, disturbance of the ground (and any existing underground services) 7. no rock-cutting is permitted
The budget available for this project is €2.5 million (excl VAT).
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 19 OF 47
4.3.6.1 General design principles
4.3.6.1.1 Accessibility Issues The promotion of equal opportunities is taken into consideration in all aspects of the project and particularly in the conceptual and physical design of the various structures. Hence, one of the Project’s top priorities is that of universal accessibility in the proposed buildings, as well as the pathways/walkways, including the office spaces, and other amenities, for the benefit of any eventuality of employees with disability. Furthermore, this project also has to provide total accessibility to wheelchair users, families using pushchairs and the elderly. Hence, the KNPD (National Commission Persons with Disability) has to be consulted throughout the process to ensure the implementation of all necessary measures, in compliance with the Access for all – Design Guidelines (attached).
4.3.6.1.2 The Environment and Energy The project has also to ensure effective protection of the environment and prudent use of Environmental Sustainability with respect to Carbon Neutrality and Environmental Resource Efficiency, as well as be compliant with the Technical Guidance F – Conservation of Fuel, Energy and Natural Resources (minimum requirements on the energy performance building regulations, 2006) (attached).
The use of Renewable Energy Systems (RES) has been considered by Heritage Malta, and an assessment of a possible working solution for the inclusion of solar-powered lighting systems is envisaged in the project planning phase. Hence, much emphasis shall be made on the introduction of elements in the design of all the various elements and the facilities themselves (particularly in the design of the Interpretation Centre and ‘Exit Point’) which will greatly limit the consumption of energy such as maximising the use of natural light, encouraging natural ventilation and building insulation within the buildings themselves so as to minimise the need for the reliance of forced mechanical environmental control systems. Such measures have already been implemented in the design of the visitor centres at Tarxien and Hagar Qim and Mnajdra Heritage Park. Therefore, these will also be included in the structures planned for the Ġgantija Heritage Park (and Saint Paul’s Catacombs).
Hence the proposed buildings and structures are to be designed as efficiently as possible, seeking ways to minimise negative impact on the environment. Neither the buildings nor the structures for the pathway, will give out carbon emissions or other hazardous gases throughout their lifetime.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 20 OF 47
Furthermore, the valorisation of the Ġgantija Temples is synonymous with a contribution towards a better environment since it strictly relates to improved landscaping of the rural surroundings.
4.3.6.2 The Visitor Experience
The design of the different components of the project has to ensure a smooth and controlled visitor flow. Hence, the design has to distinguish between the ‘public’ and ‘paying visitors’ areas. Presently, in Heritage Malta sites, controlled access (at entry and exit) is achieved through the installation of turnstiles. This implies that the different functions, their location and planning have to clearly classify the different uses accordingly, so as to ensure efficient visitor control with minimum staff surveillance.
4.3.6.2.1 Interpretation Centre
The Interpretation Centre will serve as a centre for all the sites in the vicinity, which apart from the ĠGANTIJA Temples and Ta’ Kola Windmill , also include the Xag ħra Stone Circle and l-Għar ta’ Għej żu.
The site area is c. 990 sq.m. (survey attached) and the maximum total internal floor area cannot exceed 400 sq.m.
The maximum building height shall not exceed 4.5m above existing soil level, and the structure shall not be visible, at any point, from the Temples and the immediate surrounding areas.
The Interpretation Centre must be a 1-floor structure , which however does not exclude spilt-level configurations, whereby the structure follows the natural gradient of the site and/or the proposed visitor flow. Such configurations will have to ensure compliance with ‘access for all’ guidelines, and considering the public nature of the building, such provisions can be exceeded to truly ensure an enjoyable experience to the wide spectrum of visitors needs.
The natural sloping nature of the site shall be used as an opportunity to minimise the physical impact of the structure within the landscape/setting. This also includes the design and upgrading of the road junction and the relationship of the proposed layout with the urban context. Hence, the design will aim to have negligible impact in compromising the existing views of the dwellings over the (open) landscape. On the other hand, the configuration can also ensure the provision of open spaces for the enjoyment of the residents of Xag ħra.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 21 OF 47
The main Activities/Uses/Functions shall include:
1. Ticketing/Reception/Orientation Point (General Information regarding Xaghra sites) 2. WCs 3. Permanent Display/ Audiovisual Hall/ (Children) Activity Room 4. Administration Office (two work stations) 5. Staff Room (and staff WC)/ 1st Aid/ Security/ Service Room (Storage/Switchboard)
With respect to the ‘Permanent Display/ Audiovisual Hall/ (Children) Activity Room’ areas, the Audiovisual Hall has to accommodate 60 seated patrons (c. 90sq.m. ) and the children activity area has to cater for around 15 to 25 students contemporaneously (c. 50 sq.m. ). The comprehensive area for all the three functions should be circa 310sq.m.
4.3.6.2.2 The pathway/landscaping
The pathway and proposed landscaping, including the restoration and rehabilitation of rubble walls, shall ensure ‘access for all’ throughout the route from the Interpretation Centre to the Temples and from the Temples to the ‘Exit Point’.
The scheme has to incorporate all existing vegetation and trees, which are protected by law.
The proposal shall also include layouts and schemes to address, and replace, the hard tarmac areas (in the vicinity of the Temple) whilst still allowing the spaces to be used for activities/shows/concerts/etc., providing seating for around one thousand (1000) patrons.
The scheme is also to include the restoration and rebuilding of approximately 200m of rubble wall.
4.3.6.2.3 The ‘Exit Point’
The ‘Exit Point’ shall be located outside the extents of the Heritage Park, in the coach/bus/etc parking area.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 22 OF 47
The ‘Exit Point’ should be a low-profile lightweight structure, placed over the existing asphalt/proposed finish, with a maximum external height not exceeding 3m.
The footprint of the structure should not be larger than the combined footprint of the structures it replaces.
The main aim of this structure, is to complement, rationalize and ‘tidy-up’, the re-design and upgrading of the coach/bus/etc parking area, including licensed hawkers, etc.
The necessary functions of the ‘Exit Point’ shall include: - a space where the visitor can deposit the audio-guide, avoiding the need to walk uphill, all the way back to the Interpretation Centre - relocation of the existing security office - souvenir shop (and other commercial activities) - sanitary facilities
The underlying principles of the design shall ensure that the commercial activity on the site is kept to a minimum necessary, and the structures that house them should be kept as low-profile and unobtrusive as possible.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 23 OF 47
05 CONTEST REGULATIONS
05.1 CONTEST PROMOTER The Contest promoter/organizer is Heritage Malta .
05.2 CONTRACTING AGENCY AND AUTHORITY The contracting agency is Heritage Malta.
05.3 PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL ADVISOR AND CONTEST SECRETARIAT The Professional and Technical Advisor for the Contest will be:
Perit David Zahra BE&A (Hons), M Sc Cons Tech, Conservation Architect ERDF032 Project Manager Heritage Malta Old University Buildings Merchants Street Valletta VLT1175 Malta
Tel: (+356) 2295 4319 Mob: (+356) 7988 7296 Fax: (+356) 2295 4000
E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.heritagemalta.org/erdf032
The Contest Secretariat can be reached at the contact information above.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 24 OF 47
05.4 THE AIM OF THE CONTEST The Contest will address four main areas/aspects which are seen as priorities for an integrated and sustainable management of the heritage assets delineated above. Keeping in mind the landscape value and context the proposed project shall comprise the following:
• PART A: the Masterplan of the Ġgantija Heritage Park and the immediate surroundings with respect to circulation, etc. • PART B: the Interpretation Centre • PART C: the landscape and pathway linking the Interpretation Centre to the Ġgantija Temples, and the Temples to the ‘Exit Point’ • PART D: the ‘Exit Point’
05.5 TYPE OF CONTEST The Contest is an open (anonymous) single-stage project Contest, in accordance with the principles outlined in the ‘L.N. 177 of 2005 - PUBLIC CONTRACTS REGULATIONS, 2005’, 57.
05.6 CONTEST LANGUAGE The language for this Contest is English only .
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 25 OF 47
05.7 ELIGIBILITY The Contest is open to Architects and Architectural Firms , forming a team of professionals, fulfilling the parameters outlined below. The winner of the contest shall be appointed as the ‘Consultant Architect’ . On the other hand, the team leader shall be referred to as the ‘Key Expert’ .
05.7.1 PARTICIPATION • The following persons will not be admitted to take part in the Contest: o Jurors and Alternate jurors – no member of the jury shall take part, either directly or indirectly, or be entrusted either directly or indirectly with a commission connected with the carrying out of the object of the competition o the Technical Advisor o Employees of Heritage Malta, nor any person who has been involved in the preparation or organization of the Contest o the immediate family members of the above, as well as persons belonging to any organisation with which the above mentioned are associated as heads, staff or advisors.
• Contestants may not receive direct or indirect assistance related to the Contest from the persons mentioned above.
• Participation is open on equal terms to all natural and legal persons of the Member States of the European Union, the beneficiary country and any other country in accordance with Article 68 of LN177/2005. All works, supplies and services must originate in one or more of these countries.
• These terms refer to all nationals of the said states and to all legal entities, companies or partnerships constituted under, and governed by, the civil, commercial or public law of such states and having their statutory office, central administration or principal place of business there. A legal entity, company or partnership having only its statutory office there, must be engaged in an activity which has an effective and continuous link with the economy of the state concerned. Contestants must provide evidence of their status.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 26 OF 47
• These rules apply to: o contestants o members of a consortium o any (nominated) subcontractors.
• Natural persons, companies or undertakings for whom the conditions set out in Article 49 of the Public Contracts Regulations 2005 , apply, may be excluded from participation in the ‘Design Contest’ and the award of the contract. Contestants who have been guilty of making false declarations will also incur financial penalties representing 10% of the total value of the contract being awarded. That rate may be increased to 20% in the event of a repeat offence within five years of the first infringement. Contestants are to fill in form at Annex XI as per clause 4.2 (f) .
• The name of the ‘Key expert ’ is to be listed in the provided template included with the (Draft) Contract dossier ( ANNEX IV ). A CV of the key experts shall also be presented (as template attached in ANNEX IV ). The CV must be confined to 3 pages and only one CV should be provided for each position. Note that the CVs of non-key experts must not be submitted. These documents shall become ANNEX IV of the contract.
• The qualifications and experience of the key expert must clearly match the profiles indicated in these ‘Eligibility Criteria ’. The key expert is that whose involvement is considered to be instrumental in the achievement of the contract objectives. His/her positions and responsibilities are defined below.
• All Key Experts need to present a signed ‘ Statement of exclusivity and availability’ (using the template included), the purpose of which are as follows: o The key expert proposed in this ‘Design Contest’ entry must not be part of any other submission for this contest. They must therefore engage themselves exclusively to the contestant. o Each key expert must also undertake to be available, able and willing to work for all the period foreseen for his/her input during the implementation of the contract as indicated in the Terms of Reference and/or in the Organisation and Methodology . o Faxed copies or electronic submissions of the statements of exclusivity and availability are accepted. Note that non-key experts must not be asked to sign statements of exclusivity and availability.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 27 OF 47
o Any expert who is engaged on another project, where the input from his/her position in that contract could be required on the same dates as his/her activities under this contract must not be proposed as a key expert for this contract. Consequently, the dates included by a key expert in his/her statement of exclusivity and availability in the submission must not overlap with dates on which he/she is committed to work on any other contract or tender o If a key expert has been proposed by more than one contestant, with the agreement of the key expert, the corresponding ’Design Conetst’ entries may be rejected. The same applies if the key expert proposed has been involved in the preparation of the project to the extent this engagement constitutes a conflict of interest in accordance with Article 9 of the General Conditions . The expert concerned will be excluded from this ”Design Contest’. o In cases where a key expert will not be available at the expected start of his/her activities, the corresponding entry may be rejected and the expert concerned may be excluded from this contest. o The key expert must have the nationality of one of the EU Member States, candidate countries or any other country in accordance with Article 68 of LN177/2005. • The Key Experts might be asked by Heritage Malta to provide the following documents: o a copy of the diplomas mentioned in their CVs, a copy of the employers' certificates or references proving the professional experience indicated in their CVs, and/or any further proof, as deemed necessary by Heritage Malta, of their eligibility within such timeframe as may be required by Heritage Malta, failing which the entry shall be disqualified
• Heritage Malta will only consider substitutions of the Key Experts, after the deadline for the submission of entries in cases of unexpected delays in the commencement date beyond the control of the Consultant Architect, or exceptionally because of the incapacity of a key expert for health reasons or due to ‘force majeure’ or other circumstances which may justify a replacement and which would not have any effect on the selection of the winner of the ‘Design Contest’.
• The desire of a Key Expert to be used on another project or a change of mind on the part of an expert about the contract will not be accepted as a reason for substitution of any of the key experts.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 28 OF 47
5.7.1.1 Key Expert – Profile The profiles of the ‘Key Expert ’ shall be as follows:
5.7.1.1.1 Qualifications and skills • The Key Expert shall lead the team of professionals, necessary to ensure the successful design and implementation of the various aspects of the project as stipulated in the (Draft) Contract ‘Terms of Reference’, within the framework of the Malta Environment and Planning Authority application/permit process, in the parameters stipulated by the Local Building Regulations (ex: Civil Code, Sanitary Regulations, Design Guidance F, Access for All, etc.) and in the vicinity of, and within, sensitive archaeological areas and the implied complex conservation issues. • The Key Expert shall be: o in possession of all the necessary warrants, permits, etc., as applicable, necessary to exercise the role of an Architect and Civil Engineer (‘Perit’) in Malta as stipulated in the Laws of Malta - Periti Act Chapter 390 and other associated legislation for at least five (5) years o (in the case of a foreigner) have the right to practice the profession in his/her home country o have academic qualifications in the field of Architecture and/or Civil Engineering o have experience in the field with a proven track record, i.e., capable of successfully undertaking a project from concept to completion.
• The Key Expert shall be: o experienced in architectural and/or archaeological site conservation and have a general sensibility and/or knowledge towards heritage-related issues, including architectural and preventive conservation aspects o experience should consist of leading a team of experts in similar projects in not less than one (1) project, of the same scale, in the past three (3) years.
• The Key Expert shall provide experience of the capability of successfully undertaking a project (similar in scale) from concept to completion, with particular to projects in a Cultural Heritage context. Proven capability in dealing with contractors, consultants and experts is also fundamental. • In view of the nature of the work, reporting and coordination, the Key Expert must be fully proficient in English. • The Key Expert shall be present and available during the (whole) implementation period of the various aspects of the project.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 29 OF 47
5.7.1.1.2 Submissions – evidence of technical and/or professional abilities • a Dossier, no longer than twenty (20) A4 pages, including a portfolio of a list of works carried out over the last five (5) years, accompanied by certificates of satisfactory execution from selected clients of the most important works • a curriculum vitae (as per attached template), including past experience, and a company profile, where applicable, including the educational and professional qualifications of the contestant and those of his managerial staff and, in particular, those of the person or persons who shall from part of the team • certificates drawn up by official quality control institutes and agencies of recognised competence, if and as applicable.
5.7.1.1.3 Professional responsibility • The Key Expert shall carry all the professional responsibilities of a ‘ Perit ’ as defined in the Laws of Malta - Periti Act Chapter 390 (defined in Art 2 – “…the profession assuming responsibility for the design and, or, construction of building works, under the generic title of Perit and includes works in architecture and civil and structural engineering”), as applicable.
05.7.2 JOINT VENTURE OR CONSORTIUM In the case of a submission by a joint venture or consortium:
• If the Consultant Architect is a joint venture or consortium of two or more persons, the object is securing a single contract, each person must sign the contract and will be jointly and severally liable for the contract. Those persons must designate one of their number to act as leader – the Key Expert - with authority to bind the joint venture or consortium. The composition of the joint venture or consortium must not be altered without the prior consent in writing of Heritage Malta.
• The submission/entry may be signed by the representative of the joint venture or consortium only if he has been expressly so authorised in writing by the members of the joint venture or consortium, and the authorising contract, notarial act or deed must be submitted to Heritage Malta within the 30 days following the award of the contract. All signatures to the authorising instrument must be certified in accordance with the national laws and regulations of each party comprising the joint venture or consortium together with the powers of attorney establishing, in writing, that the signatories to the submission are empowered to enter into commitments on behalf of the members of the joint venture or consortium. Each member of such joint venture or consortium must provide the proof as required under as if it, itself, were the contestant.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 30 OF 47
05.8 SCHEDULE The process of the Contest will be carried out following the stages and dates as stipulated in the table below. Nonetheless, Heritage Malta reserves the right to shorten, extend, modify or cancel the contest if circumstances so require, and cannot be held responsible for such changes. The termination or suspension of the Contest will not give rise to any claim by the Contestants. If the contest is then resumed by Heritage Malta, the contestant shall abide by the Organizer’s decision regarding resumption of the Contest.
Contest Period Description Date 1 Contest launch/Registration opens 22.10.2009 2 Site (familiarisation) visit* 30.10.2009 3 Site visit/ Clarification Meeting* 13.11.2009 4 Deadline for submitting questions 27.11.2009 5 Deadline for sending written answers 09.12.2009 6 Deadline for reception of entries at Contest Secretariat 16.12.2009 7 Meeting of the Jury 17 to 19.12.09 8 Announcement of Contest results 19.12.09 9 Exhibition of submitted schemes**
* A ‘site (familiarisation) visit’, as well as a ‘site visit/clarification meeting’ shall be organised so that prospective Contestants can acquaint themselves better with the project and the local conditions. Prospective Contestants must confirm their attendance and participation in the site visits via email to the ‘Professional and Technical Advisor’ ([email protected] )
Additional information or clarifications on the brief will not be given at the site visit, but will be done by Heritage Malta as indicated above. All costs of visiting the site must be met by the Contestants.
Minutes will be taken during the site visit and these will be communicated - together with any clarifications in response to written requests which are not addressed during the meeting - in writing to all the prospective Contestants by the date stipulated in the above schedule. No further clarifications will be given after this date.
** Dates and venue of exhibition shall be posted on www.heritagemalta.org/erdf032 .
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 31 OF 47
05.9 PRIZE The winner shall be awarded a service contract:
HM.20.09 - Architectural Services for ‘Enhancing the visitor experience in the Ġgantija Heritage Park (World Heritage Site) GOZO’
The value of the above contract is €100,000 (excluding VAT). The relevant (Draft) Contract, including the Special Conditions, Terms of Reference, etc., is attached to this document. All the specific or special terms and conditions included in the ‘(Draft) Contract’ must be adhered to by the Contestant and/or winner. The Contestant is responsible for any and all taxes payable as a result of the awarded contract for services.
A number of honourable mentions shall also be chosen, at the discretion of the Jury.
The jury reserves the right to arbitrarily decide not to award the ‘winner’, without stating the reasoning behind such a decision.
05.10 CONTESTATION OF RULES /RESULTS Heritage Malta reserves the right to at any time, change, amend, delete or add to the ‘Project Brief’ and other rules and regulations including the mechanism of the Contest at its absolute discretion.
Participation in the contest implies total acceptance of the rules. Any practical difficulties of interpretation or application of these rules will be solved by sovereign decision of Heritage Malta. Hence, in registering for this Design Contest, the participants accept and agree to respect the above rules as well as the decisions of Heritage Malta and the Jury.
Heritage Malta’s, and the Jury’s, decisions on all matters relating to the Contest (including without limitation, the selection of Contestants, content and/or resolutions made) shall be final and absolute and binding on the Contestant. No discussion, correspondence, enquiry, appeal or challenge in respect of any decision of Heritage Malta will be entertained.
The Contestant shall not dispute nor make any oral or written complaints, public announcements or statements on the same whether during or after the Contest Period.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 32 OF 47
06 ORGANISATION AND CO -ORDINATION OF THE CONTEST
06.1.1 PROFESSIONAL AND TECHNICAL ADVISOR The Professional and Technical Advisor will ensure that the Contest timetable is respected. He will:
• supervise the registration of Contestants, the reception of questions and the dispatching of the promoter’s replies to all Contestants • supervise the reception of Contest entries and respect, at all times, the competitor’s anonymity • co-ordinate the Contest and must guarantee that the Contest runs smoothly and correctly • check that entries fulfil the mandatory requirements for the Contest • may not eliminate any entry but point out to the Jury any deviation from the programme or regulations, also with regard to deadlines established for the Contest • assist the Jury and be present during adjudication • attend the work of the Jury, without the right to vote, and together with the Jury, will draw up the minutes of the meetings - acting as the secretary of the Jury • be responsible for drawing up reports.
The Professional and Technical Advisor will inform the Contestants of the names of the winners and also communicate any information, as necessary, to Heritage Malta.
06.1.2 GENERAL
• Heritage Malta shall not be liable to perform any of its obligations in respect of the Contest and the regulations and conditions and rules in respect of the Contest where they are unable to do so as a result of circumstances beyond its control and shall not be liable to compensate the Contestants in any manner whatsoever in such circumstances. • The Contestant shall not be entitled to assign any of the rights or sub-contract any of the obligations herein. • All rights and privileges herein granted to Heritage Malta are irrevocable and not subjected to rescission, restraint or injunction under any and all circumstances. Under no circumstances shall the Contestants have the right to injunctive relief or to restrain or otherwise interferer with the organisation
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 33 OF 47
of the Contest, the production, distribution, exhibition, and/or exploitation of the Contest and/or any product based on and/or derived from the Contest. • The invalidity, illegality or unenforceability of any terms hereunder shall not affect or impair the continuation in force of the remainder regulations and conditions of the Contests.
06.1.3 REGISTRATION PROCEDURE Applications to enter the Contest shall register online on www.heritagemalta.org/erdf032 within the Contest deadlines as stipulated Section 05.8 Schedule .
Applications shall indicate: • The (individual) contestant (or team leader’s) full name and nationality • the warrant number of the (local) ‘Perit’, or any equivalent permit (as required by the Laws of Malta) • full contact details • (foreign entries) registration prove/number, of the contestant (or team leader), that he/she is authorised to practise the profession in his/her own country
The registration process shall include the payment of the registration fee (on-line).
06.1.4 REGISTRATION FEE The non-reimbursable registration fee of €200 must be paid, at the time of registration.
The payment of the fee can be executed by credit card (VISA) on-line on www.heritagemalta.org/erdf032
06.1.5 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Any competitor wishing to obtain further information may send questions via e-mail to the Contest Secretariat, in English.
All such queries received within the deadlines indicated in Section 05.8 Schedule shall receive answers in the form of an email, circulated to all participants, or via fax (if requested). The reply will also be displayed on the Contest web-site www.heritagemalta.org/erdf032
This document will then be considered to be an integral part of the Contest brief.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 34 OF 47
06.1.6 DOCUMENTS TO BE PROVIDED BY THE PROMOTER The Promoter will provide:
• A complete brief including: o Background information on: Heritage Malta The ERDF032 Project o Project Brief o Contest Regulations o Organisation and Co-ordination of the Contest
• An addendum (pdf version) with: o (Draft) Contract for Architectural Services for ‘Enhancing the visitor experience in the Ġgantija Heritage Park (World Heritage Site) GOZO’ (HM.20.09) o Policy and Design Guidance 2007 o Access for all – Design Guidelines o Technical Guidance F – Conservation of Fuel, Energy and Natural Resources (minimum requirements on the energy performance building regulations, 2006) o ICOMOS International Cultural Tourism Charter
• Visual information: o A set of photographs and video of the site o Detailed survey plans (including present landscaping and spot-levels)
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 35 OF 47
06.1.7 DOCUMENTS TO BE SUBMITTED BY CONTESTANTS The Contestants are required to submit the following –
(1) A short report (maximum 5 pages) should be compiled presenting the Contestant’s approach and delineating: • Design Philosophy • Application of Standards • Dynamics of the project • Environment Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
(2) A maximum of five (5) A2 panels, using the metric scale (where applicable), with the required designs as proposed below: • presented horizontally • Contestants should submit a CD ROM of all the panels in digital format • Metric scale should be used throughout.
PANEL 1: Masterplan • A masterplan including the proposed buildings, pathways, walkways, landscaping, etc., showing the movement and connectivity and dynamics of the proposed scheme within, and in the immediate surroundings, of the Ġgantija Heritage Park • The masterplan should also include the identification of security measures, such as suggested boundaries (around the complex and Interpretation Centre).
PANELS 2 and 3: Interpretation Centre • 3D Artists’ impression of the Interpretation Centre within the landscape/context • General plan of Interpretation Centre (all levels) (1:200) • Sections through the Interpretation Centre (1:200) • General plans of any landscaping measures or designs (1:500) • The visual relationship/impact between the Ġgantija Temples (and immediate surroundings) and the building • The proposed foundation system.
PANEL 4: ‘Exit Point’ • 3D Artists’ impression of the ‘Exit Point’ in relation to the landscape/context • General plan of ‘Exit Point’ (1:100 or 1:200)
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 36 OF 47
• Sections through the ‘Exit Point’ (1:100 or 1:200) • General plans of any landscaping measures or designs (1:500) • The visual relationship/impact between the Ġgantija Temples (and immediate surroundings) and the building • The proposed foundation system.
PANEL 5: The pathway and landscaping (concept) • 3D Artists’ impression of the pathway/landscaping scheme within the (site) context connecting the Interpretation Centre to the Temples to the ‘Exit Point’ • Detail drawings of particular elements of the scheme (including foundation/support system, finishes, lighting, etc.) • Proposed materials for finishes, etc.
(3) Contestants shall be allowed to submit a Model, as part of their presentation, which shall not exceed 0.25sq.m., and a height of 300mm. Submitted models shall become the property of Heritage Malta.
(4) All the relevant Annexes and documentation as specified in the (Draft) Contract dossier, as per provided templates, including: a) A compiled and signed Submission Form including the Contestant’s Declaration , stating that the contestant totally accepts and agrees to respect the ‘Design Contest’ rules, as well as any other decision taken by Heritage Malta and the Jury during the contest period, as well as renounce to the right of appeal. b) A signed declaration from each legal entity (in the case of a joint venture or consortium). c) The information requested with respect to the Key expert (as identified in Section 05.7 Eligibility ), included the compiled form and CV (as per template) provided in ANNEX IV , the respective Statement of exclusivity and availability , and the documentation requested in 5.7.1.1.2 Submissions – evidence of technical and/or professional abilities d) A completed Financial Identification form ( ANNEX VI ) to nominate the bank account into which payments would be made. e) Contact Details in ANNEX IX - Details of Contestant. f) A signed declaration from each legal entity certifying their eligibility to participate, using the form attached at ANNEX X .
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 37 OF 47
06.1.8 ANONYMITY Contest entries are to be presented anonymously.
All documents submitted will be identified exclusively by an alphanumeric identification code of the Contestants choice, consisting of a six-digit number followed by two letters . This identification code, 1cm high, will be placed at the right hand upper corner of all documents/pieces submitted.
No other identification will appear on panels or documents. The identification envelopes, including all the relevant Annexes and documentation as specified in the (Draft) Contract dossier, as per provided templates, accompanying the entries will not be opened until the jury has made its final selection/decision. Anonymity will then be lifted.
06.1.9 CONFIDENTIALITY The Contestant shall treat all the regulations and conditions and rules of the Contest and all information and knowledge obtained by the Contestant in relation to and/or in connection with the Contest and/or derived as a result of his/her participation in the same, including without limitation Heritage Malta’s business and operational details, the contest mechanics, the judging/adjudication criteria for the Contest (hereafter collectively known as “Confidential Information”), as confidential and the Contestant, shall, during and after the Contest Period, take all reasonable precautions to prevent disclosures of the Confidential Information to unauthorized persons or entities for any reason whatsoever and undertakes to deliver to the Organiser all tangible material embodying the Confidential Information including any documentation, models accounts, reference materials, samples and machines readable media and equipment that is in any way related to the Confidential Information including all duplicates and copies thereof.
06.1.10 INDEMNITY The Contestants forever waive, release and discharge Heritage Malta, from and against, any and all liabilities, costs, loss, damages or expenses which the Contestant, or any party claiming through the Contestant hereafter may have arising out of acceptance of any award or participation in the Contest including (but not limited to) personal injury and damage to property and whether or not direct, consequential or foreseeable.
The Contestant shall indemnify Heritage Malta, from and against all liability, cost, loss or expenses suffered thereby as a result of the Contestant’s breach of the Contestant’s warranties and undertakings and any breach of the regulations and/or conditions and/or rules of the Contest.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 38 OF 47
06.1.11 COSTS All costs incurred by the Contestant in relation to and/or with respect to the Contest including without limitation postal charges or Internet Service Provider (ISP) charges (if applicable), all transport costs, communication charges, accommodation, meal costs and other related costs incurred by the Contestant as a result of and/or pursuant to his/her participation in the Contests shall be solely borne by the Contestant. Heritage Malta shall not be under any obligation to reimburse the Contestant for any such costs and expenses incurred thereof.
06.1.12 SUBMISSION OF ENTRIES Contestants must ensure that their entries arrive at the Contest Secretariat on, or before, the deadline stipulated in Section 05.8 Schedule .
The entry should be submitted as a single package containing two separate envelopes:
(1) One sealed opaque envelope (1) should contain all the relevant Annexes and documentation as specified in the (Draft) Contract dossier, as per provided templates, as specified in Section 06.1.7 Documents to be submitted by Competitor – (4). The identification code as described in Section 06.1.8 Anonymity will appear on the outside of the envelope. Contestants should put their identification code on all documents submitted. (2) The other envelope (2) will contain all the other submission material as delineated in Section 06.1.7 Documents to be submitted by Competitor – (1) and (2) and (3). Packages sent from foreign countries must be packed so as to facilitate customs inspection, where required. The panels should be mounted on a rigid support.
In order to preserve anonymity, the Contest Secretariat will discard wrapping materials on reception. Contestants must ensure that the date of dispatch is clearly visible on the package. Contestants, who hand in their entries, will be provided with a receipt by the Contest secretariat.
The outside of the package will be clearly marked with the title:
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN CONTEST ENHANCING THE VISITORS ’ EXPERIENCE IN THE ĠGANTIJA HERITAGE PARK WORLD HERITAGE SITE
Contestants must ensure that their entries reach the Contest office within the deadlines. Heritage Malta will not be held responsible for delays in transport. Towards this end, Contestants are requested to indicate clearly on the package that the contents are of no commercial value.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 39 OF 47
The Contest Entry must be complete, accurate and sent according to the abovementioned criteria. By submitting the Contest Entry, the Contestant shall be deemed to have read, understood, accepted and agree to be bound by the regulations and conditions of the Contest.
Submission of the Contest Entry does not guarantee the Contestant the opportunity to participate in the Contest. Heritage Malta shall be entitled to reject or refuse participation by the Contestants for reasons, including (without limitation) where the Contest Entry is not complete or any provisions in the regulations and conditions is not fulfilled or adhered to by the Contestant.
Entries received after the deadline will be disqualified and ineligible for consideration.
06.1.13 PROCESSING OF CONTEST ENTRIES The Professional and Technical Advisor, will open the Contest entries. He shall draw up a list with the identification codes of the projects and a progressive order number that must not correspond to the order in which the entries were delivered. The entries will only be available to the professional and technical advisor and the jury (until the jury’s final decision). This will ensure a correct comparative judgement by the jury. The entries received will be examined by the Professional and Technical Advisor in full compliance with the Contest regulations.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 40 OF 47
06.1.14 SUBMISSION DATE The delivery of entries should reach:
Heritage Malta Old University Buildings Merchants Street Valletta VLT1175 Malta
by hand or dispatch by 12:00 noon local time of the 16 th December 2009 .
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 41 OF 47
06.1.15 JURY The jury will be composed of 7 (seven) members and 2 (two) deputy members.
These will include the following:
Member Designation Joseph Said Heritage Malta - Chairman (ex officio) Isabel Vella Heritage Malta – Deputy Chairman (ex officio) Dr Reuben Grima Heritage Malta - Senior Curator Prehistoric Sites (ex officio) Prof Charles Farrugia UNESCO Commission - Chairman (ex officio) Perit Shirley Cefai Scientific Committee for the Megalithic Temples - Member (ex officio) Perit David Pace Kamra tal-Periti (nominated Architect and Civil Engineer) Joseph Attard Tabone Historical Researcher
Deputy Perit Joe Galea Kamra tal-Periti (nominated Architect and Civil Engineer) John Cremona Heritage Malta - Board Member (ex officio)
06.1.16 TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE JURY At its first session the jury will elect its President. The jury shall evaluate the design submissions, consider the criteria set by Heritage Malta and establish its criteria for assessing the projects, shall examine all entries, draw up the list of awards (winner and honourable mentions) and draft the final report with the necessary recommendations. All members will sign the report. Each member of the jury has one vote.
Decisions of the jury shall be taken by a majority vote, with a separate vote on each entry. In the event of a tied vote, the President shall have the casting vote. Decisions taken by the jury are final. Deputy members will attend all jury sessions without having the right to vote, unless called upon to replace a voting member. If a jury member is absent from the first meeting he will be replaced by a deputy for the entire process. In the case of a short absence, a deputy member will replace a titular member and any vote taken will be definitive. A prolonged absence would lead to the titular member being replaced for the remainder of the meeting.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 42 OF 47
The Jury may seek any technical and specialist advice as deemed necessary, at any point during the adjudication process.
06.1.17 ADJUDICATION CRITERIA The Jury shall evaluate the design submissions. The criteria for the evaluation of the contest will be in compliance with the following criteria:
• an outstanding architectural statement reflecting the ‘Design Philosophy’ • a compliance to the parameters set in the ‘Functional Brief’ • a true understanding of, and respect for, the space and the environment • technical solution presented for the foundation systems • an efficiency in design and structure to permit practical and economical construction (within budget) • the advantages of the proposal on the basis of quality, value for money and technical merit.
Contestants should note that the abovementioned criteria are not ranked in order of importance.
06.1.18 DISQUALIFICATION Heritage Malta reserves the right to disqualify/exclude Contestants and/or revoke the award (at any stage of the Contest), if:
(1) the Contestant does not meet the eligibility criteria as set out in Section 05.7 (2) the deadlines indicated in these regulations have not been respected (3) anonymity is disclosed during Contest phase (4) in Heritage Malta’s sole determination, it believes the Contestant has attempted to undermine and/or influence the operation of the Contest and influencing the decision of the Jury, by fraud, cheating and/or deception (5) any of the conditions, regulations or specifics are breached or disregarded (6) any of the material listed in the submissions section is omitted.
In the event of disqualification after award/signing of contract, the procedures as specified in the (Draft) Contract document shall be applied.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 43 OF 47
06.1.19 WARRANTIES (1) The Contestant represents and warrants Heritage Malta, that: • The Contestant has the right, authority and power to enter into the Contest in accordance with the regulations and conditions and shall provide such proof as Heritage Malta requires • The Contestants is not a bankrupt or an un-discharged bankrupt • All the statements submitted to Heritage Malta are true, correct, accurate and complete. (2) In consideration of Heritage Malta’s offering the Contestant the opportunity to participate in a Contest, the Contestant hereby unconditionally and irrevocably: i. Agrees that if so required by Heritage Malta, the winner shall make himself/herself available (without compensation) for the production, recording and publicity of the Contest during such time and productions schedule as may be notified by the Organiser. • Agrees and consents that Heritage Malta shall have right and absolute discretion to use the information submitted with the contest entry. All copyright shall belong to Heritage Malta absolutely. • The Contestant warrants that all intellectual property rights, in the form of (but not limited to) photographs, drawings, etc., does not infringe any third party intellectual property rights. • Agrees that Heritage Malta reserves the right, at its sole and absolute discretion, to use and exploit the Intellectual Property via any means or media and in any manner it deems fit without first obtaining any consent nor making any payment whatsoever to the Contestant and/or Contest Winner (and/or Honourable Mentions) and/or representatives. • Confirms that the Contestant has read and understood the regulations and conditions of the Contest and the Contestant agrees to abide by the said regulations and conditions accordingly and agrees to cooperate and to follow all directions given to the Contestant. • Agrees that award(s) adjudicated in the Contest is contingent upon the accuracy of the information provided and disclosures made by the Contestant and the full and complete performance of the Contestants warranties, undertakings and obligations hereunder. • Agrees that the Contestant shall not by act or omission, directly or indirectly, bring Heritage Malta into disrepute. • Agrees that the Contestant shall not without prior written consent of Heritage Malta publish or disclose any information in connection with the Contest and/or award (including without limitation, to any representatives of media in any form whatsoever). • Agrees that the Contestant shall not give any product endorsement, any interviews or be involved in any articles or reports in respect of the Contest or the award with any third party.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 44 OF 47
• Agrees that the Contestant’s participation in the Contest does not entitle the Contestant to wages, salary or any other compensation.
06.1.20 LIMITATION OF LIABILITY The Contestant acknowledges that his/her participation in the Contest shall be at his/her own risks.
Heritage Malta, its directors, officers and employees, shall not be liable to any Contestant in respect of any failure to win the Contest and/or any other loss, damages, costs, expenses, claims, liabilities, injury, death, accidents suffered by the Contestant during the Contest or arising out of or in connection with the Contest, the participation by the Contestant in the Contest and/or the awarded contract.
06.1.21 GOVERNING LAW The regulations and conditions of the Contest shall be construed, governed and interpreted in accordance with the Laws of Malta.
06.1.22 PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION The competitor winning the Contest will be commissioned to carry out the project as per conditions and schedule outlined in the attached draft contract: HM.20.09 - Architectural Services for ‘Enhancing the visitor experience in the Ġgantija Heritage Park (World Heritage Site) GOZO’
06.1.23 ANNOUNCEMENT OF RESULTS The results of the Contest will be announced on 19th December, 2009 .
Heritage Malta reserves the right to publish all winning entries on www.heritagemalta.org/erdf032 .
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 45 OF 47
06.1.24 EXHIBITION OF ENTRIES In the weeks following the announcement of the results of the Contest, all designs, including those disqualified by the Jury, shall be publicly exhibited, together with a copy of the signed report of the jury.
Contestants, who wish to remain anonymous, must clearly state such a wish in the identification envelope.
The dates and place/s of the exhibition will be communicated to all participants.
06.1.25 RETURN OF ENTRIES All drawings and plans, other than those which have received prizes or been purchased by Heritage Malta, shall be destroyed at the end of the public exhibition, unless the competitor has requested return (at his/her own expenses) beforehand.
06.1.26 COMMISSION FOR THE PROJECT Heritage Malta shall entrust the author of the winning scheme, with the commission for the project, in the form of a contract: Architectural Services for ‘Enhancing the visitor experience in the Ġgantija Heritage Park (World Heritage Site) GOZO’ (HM.20.09)
The value of the contract is €100,000 (excluding VAT). The relevant Service Contact, the Terms of Reference, etc., are attached to this document.
ERDF032 ARCHAEOLOGICAL HERITAGE CONSERVATION PROJECT DESIGN CONTEST
PAGE 46 OF 47
Operational Programme I – Cohesion Policy 2007-2013 Investing in Competitiveness for a Better Quality of Life Project part-financed by the European Union European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Co-financing rate: 85% EU funds; 15% National Funds Investing in your future