NCC856 Contract for an Operator of Blyth Culture Centre Hub

As part of the 'Energising Blyth' Programme, Northumberland County Council are developing a flagship 2000m2, 2-storey 'Culture Hub' facility (Culture Hub) in the heart of Blyth Town Centre and are inviting tenders from organisations who can operate the facility as a single entity, on a commercial basis.

Informed by extensive Feasibility and Demand studies and community engagement, the Culture Hub will provide 3 Screen Cinema, a Multi-Purpose Space and Studio Space for functions and performances, a Creative Play Space, Cafe and all ancillary functions. It will be an accessible facility to appeal to a broad spectrum of users, creating a focal point for local communities and visitors. The opportunity covers all functions within the building with the exception of the Creative Play Space.

The Culture Hub (The subject of this Procurement) is one part of the £70m Blyth Town Investment Plan supported by Town Deal, Future High Street Fund, Northumberland County Council and NTCA. This will deliver a range of significant projects in Blyth, including an Energy Central Campus, Hotel and public realm/street improvements to better connect and link the town to the Port.

Construction of the Culture Hub will begin later in 2023 with completion in Autumn 2024. Prior to the submission of the formal planning application and construction commencing, the Operator will be engaged in the detailed design stages (RIBA Stage 3 onwards) to ensure the building is fit for purpose.

Additional information: The Council is using the ProActis Pro Contract E-tendering portal to conduct the procurement process. To use the E-tendering portal to compete in the tender process, suppliers must create an account on the system. Once an account has been created suppliers can register interest in this opportunity. The E-tendering portal can be accessed at https://procontract.due-north.com

The Council's Procurement department will be holding online events to help any organisations not familiar with the tender process. NB - events will focus on explaining a generic tender process and document set and will not provide any advice specific to the subject of this tender. Events will be held virtually via Microsoft Teams. Dates/times of the events are as follows: Tuesday 1st November 2022 1-2pm Wednesday 2nd November 2022 5-6pm Thursday 3rd November 2022 8-9am Wednesday 9th November 2022 9-10am Thursday 10th November 2022 4-5pm Interested parties should contact Chris Baty by email with their preferred date(s): [email protected].