Provision of comprehensive operation and management services for the Greystones Regional Innovation District (the GRID) and its associated facilities. Initial contract: 2 years

Description

The Contracting Authority (CA) proposes to engage in a competitive process for the establishment of a Single-Party Framework Agreement for the provision of comprehensive operation and management services for the GRID and its associated facilities. The initial contract under the framework will be for a period of two years. A framework agreement constitutes a means of establishing the overall terms and conditions under which individual contracts may (but are not guaranteed to) be awarded over a specified period. In a single-party framework, the appointed framework member is not required to re-compete for subsequent contracts. It is emphasised that the establishment of a framework agreement does not guarantee the purchase of any specific quantity of services from the successful Tenderer. The Contracting Authority reserves the right to operate outside of the framework should it determine that better value for money can be achieved elsewhere. Notwithstanding this, the framework approach is being adopted to leverage efficiencies and maximise cost-effectiveness over the life of the agreement. Wicklow County Council intends to establish the framework to cover all aspects of the operation and management of the GRID, including but not limited to the main GRID building, including day to day operations and maintenance, marketing, finding, contracting with, and managing licensees and customers, and keeping associated external spaces well maintained. The successful Tenderer will be awarded an initial contract of two years, with the possibility of further contracts being awarded under the framework in line with performance and evolving strategic needs. The framework agreement will run for a period of four years, subject to mutual agreement and satisfactory performance. The scope of services is strategic and wide-ranging, encompassing: • Full day-to-day operation of the GRID; • Delivery of a high-quality licensee/customer experience and addressing their daily needs; • Managing all licensees and lessees of the building; • Marketing and promotional activity; • Advising on the best service offering for the building; • Creating multifunctional spaces, co-working spaces; • Financial and resource management, including monthly financial reports to Wicklow County Council; • Operation and maintenance of building and relevant outdoor spaces/facilities (including subcontracting, where relevant) to a high standard; • Facilitating and organising events in the communal space; • Liaising with Wicklow County Council, including monthly Steering Committee meetings; • Compliance with all relevant financial and regulatory obligations including those that pertain to contracting with a local authority. The successful operator will be expected to work in close collaboration with Wicklow County Council; the GRID Steering Committee, (currently comprising the Economic Development team and the Local Enterprise Office), and other relevant stakeholders to achieve objectives for economic development in the region. Any contracts awarded under the framework will detail the relevant performance requirements, governance arrangements, and reporting obligations for the period of the call-off.