WSCC SC/IR - Operator for a Creative Digital Hub in Bognor Regis

Tender description

MARKET ENGAGEMENT EXERCISE: THIS IS NOT A CALL FOR COMPETITION West Sussex County Council is looking to engage with interested organisations with a view to progressing to a procurement of an operating partner to deliver a flexible workspace and business support Hub for the Creative Digital sector in Bognor Regis and the surrounding areas. It is envisioned that operators will do this by managing the flexible shared workspace, providing digital connectivity services and provide business development and support activities for Hub members. We would like to understand and discuss the interest and capability of providers, what previous experience can help inform the Councils requirements, barriers to interest, potential commercial models, what information is required and how risk should be managed and apportioned fairly. The proposed location for the Hub is within the Grade II Listed Bognor Regis Railway Station, and work to develop the Hub so far has engaged over 100 businesses in the Creative Digital sector. This requirement will be designed to complement the regeneration and investment projects being delivered by partners Arun District Council and the University of Chichester, and the Council priorities to grow a healthy economy that will attract, retain and grow businesses that will provide high value employment for local residents and provide the digital infrastructure to enable businesses to flourish. WSCC would like to engage with interested organisations with the specialist skills and capabilities to operate the Hub and deliver the desired outcomes. A descriptive document is attached with more detail on the vision for the Digital Hub and progress to date. We would like to invite any providers to complete the attached questionnaire and return this by 26th November 2016. In addition we will be holding a market engagement event on 18th November at Chichester County Hall. The event aims to inform providers of our aspirations and what we hope to achieve, to ascertain what potential providers see as areas of risk, how the outcomes of the service can best be met, and to discuss how best to integrate social, environmental and economic considerations into the service in line with the Public Sector (Social Value) Act 2012. You should complete the booking form attached to this project and return no later than 15th November to request a place.