The client project team includes Mace appointed late last year as project manager and architect Purcell, which has worked up designs to refurbish the Grade I-listed landmark building, opened in 1877.

The project is expected to be worth up to £190m and will run for around four years.

City council procurement chiefs hope to shortlist five firms to bid with the successful contractor appointed in early December.

The winning firm will be responsible for managing the project and procuring around 80 subcontracts ranging from  £10,000 – £40m.

Works will include restoring the Great Hall and its Ford Madox Brown murals, as well as external repairs to the roof, stonework and drains. The council also says ‘significant work’ is needed to address the electrics, heating, ventilation and lifts in the building.

The Council is using the Chest procurement portal with expressions of interest required by 19 March.