Longbarn Community Hub - Operator

Tender description

Longford Park is Trafford's largest public park and a designated conservation area which is undergoing a major multi‑million‑pound restoration and improvement programme led by Trafford Council. The initiative is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF), forming part of an overall £6 million investment into the park. The project is built around improving Longford Park for people, wildlife, and heritage. Its key aims include: • Heritage Restoration • Biodiversity & Nature • Facilities & Public Realm Upgrades • Community Engagement & Wellbeing Part of the project will involve the restoration of the park's Longbarn, for use as a community hub . We are carrying out `soft market testing' as outlined below, to determine current interest levels in the market in managing and operating the Longbarn. Trafford Council seeks an experienced operator to manage the Longbarn Community Hub in Longford Park. The Longbarn is a heritage building in Longford Park, currently undergoing restoration, that will offer flexible spaces for volunteering, learning, arts & culture, health & wellbeing and community participation. The successful organisation will be responsible for ensuring that its operation meets the terms of the lease and agreed KPIs, reporting to Trafford Council and hiring the space out to other organisations. The building will also act as a hub for information and enhancement of the park's visitor experience. The development of the Longbarn will reuse the existing building fabric sustainably with scope for a more sensitive and sustainable retrofit. Lease proposed:10-year term, subject to negotiation and discussion with the selected operator. The appointed operator will be responsible for maintaining the Longbarn to an appropriate standard throughout the duration of the lease. The operator will be responsible for all repairs and maintenance of the Longbarn's internal and external areas, including statutory compliance. THIS IS NOT A CALL FOR COMPETITION This Soft Market Test is intended to allow interested organisations with relevant experience to outline their views and provide information with no commitment to themselves or the Council.