A £25 million construction contract has been offered for work to a historic building and major town centre regeneration.

Calderdale Council is seeking bids for work to the Grade I listed Piece Hall and Halifax’s new central Library and Archive centre.

A single main contractor will be appointed to deliver both projects and the council says they will be looking for the best value.

The contract will be advertised Europe-wide, in line with public sector rules on purchasing.

But councillors want to make sure that the project will bring social benefits to Calderdale.

They want assurances that the project will be supporting local apprenticeships, and that the environmental impact of the project is kept to a minimum.

Clr Tim Swift, leader of the council, said: “It is essential we employ the right people with appropriate skills and experience to work on both of these prestigious buildings.

“This is a significant milestone for the Piece Hall on its journey to become a world class heritage destination.

“The Piece Hall is unique and requires significant conservation and restoration experience, while the library will be an iconic, sustainable building and must deliver a first rate service for its users.”

The Grade I Listed Piece Hall will be restored to create a 21st century heritage visitor attraction.

The new Central Library and Archive will be on the former Square Church site.

There will be a supplier day so that local businesses can promote themselves to the successful contractor and find out more about the supply chain opportunities within this major regeneration.

The Piece Hall project is being funded by Calderdale Council and a £7m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

The new Central Library and Archive will be wholly funded by the council.

It will be funded from the sale of Northgate House and Halifax Central Library, which have been listed for sale by Calderdale.