We’re inviting expressions of interest from organisations interested in managing and operating the Main Hall at Freight House, Bradley Way, Rochford, on an interim basis, as part of a phased approach to reopening the site.
The Freight House has been identified in the recently adopted Rochford District Cultural and Visitor Economy Strategy 2025-2030 as a location with significant potential to support local communities and contribute to the wider regeneration of the town.
As an interim measure, the Council is considering the feasibility of a partial reopening of the Freight House and is inviting expressions of interest from organisations interested in managing and operating the Main Hall. The selected organisation will be responsible for delivering a diverse programme of events that enhance the cultural landscape and support the local community, while the Council undertakes a broader review of the site’s long-term future.
The process to identify an interim operator will take place in two stages:
Stage One: Initial Expressions of Interest
Organisations wishing to express interest should provide:
- Contact detail
- A brief overview of their organisation’s mission and objectives
- A proposed approach to managing the Main Hall
- A proposed schedule of events that align with cultural and community needs.
Opening date for Expressions of Interest: Wednesday 12 February 2025
Closing date for Expressions of Interest: Sunday 2 March 2025
Submission details: Interested organisations should email their proposals to assetmanagement@rochford.gov.uk
Site visits: Available upon request by contacting the Council’s Asset Management Team at assetmanagement@rochford.gov.uk or calling 01702 963328.
Stage Two: Formal Expression of Interest
Following a committee decision on 25th March 2025, shortlisted organisations will be invited to formally express their interest. The Council will evaluate submissions using a scoring matrix.
- Opening date for submissions: Wednesday 26 March 2025
- Closing date for submissions: Sunday 30 March 2025
The successful operator will be awarded the contract ahead of the site becoming operational by Tuesday 27 May 2025.