Expression of Interest: Temporary Management of Freight House Main Hall
Rochford Council is seeking expressions of interest from local service providers, voluntary or community groups, charities, and other partners and organizations to occupy and manage the main hall of Freight House Rochford. This opportunity is for a temporary period of six months, with the Council offering a licence to occupy.
The Freight House is a valued asset in Rochford District, located prominently in Rochford Town Centre near the main railway station, serving as a gateway to the town. It holds significant local importance due to its heritage and location. It is crucial to find a financially sustainable solution to keep the building operational for the future. Engaging with the local community for ongoing dialogue about the space's future is essential. The Council is seeking to reopen the main hall of the Freight House for temporary use while conducting a feasibility study to develop a comprehensive regeneration plan for the building and surrounding area, including public open space and the reservoir.
About the Opportunity:
The main hall at Freight House Rochford is a versatile space that can be utilized for a variety of activities and events. We are looking for entities that can operate the hall in a manner that benefits the wider community and aligns with the Council's Cultural Visitor Tourism Strategy.
Who Should Apply:
We invite expressions of interest from:
- Local Service Providers
- Voluntary or Community Groups
- Charities
- Other Partners and Organisations
Key Objectives:
Applicants should demonstrate how their management of the hall will:
- Benefit the Wider Community: Create a welcoming and inclusive environment that serves the diverse needs of Rochford residents.
- Support the Council's Cultural Visitor Tourism Strategy: Enhance the cultural and tourism appeal of Rochford through innovative and engaging activities.
- Foster Community Engagement: Promote community involvement and collaboration through events and programs.
Licence Details:
- Duration: 6 months
- Type: Licence to occupy
- Responsibilities: Successful applicants will be responsible for the day-to-day operations, internal maintenance, and event coordination of the main hall.
- The Council will ensure the building and main hall, meet all statutory compliance for mechanical and electrical services certified for safe occupation.
- The Council would like to approach the management of operations on an open book basis.
How to Apply:
Interested entities should submit their expression of interest, including:
- A brief overview of your organisation
- Your proposed plan for managing the hall and the requirement to operate the hall so that it is a safe environment for the public.
- How your plan aligns with the Council's objectives
- How the plan considers Rochford Residents
- Previous experience in venue management
- A financial model of operation
- A financial overview of the entity
- Relevant Insurance documentation, Health & Safety Policy and Safeguarding Policy.
Submission Deadline: Sunday 4 May 2025
For more information or to submit your expression of interest, please contact:
Email: asset.management@rochford.gov.uk
Address:
Phoebe Barnes - Director of Assets and Investments
Rochford District Council
South Street
Rochford
Essex
SS4 1BW
We look forward to receiving your proposals and working together to make Freight House Rochford a vibrant hub for the community.
The Council is currently seeking expressions of interest only and there is no commitment on any party to move any proposal forward, and the council may cease the process at any point. Any submissions are done so at the proposer's risk, and the council will accept no responsibility for any expense incurred.