Operation and Management of Radcliffe Market

Tender description

The Council currently operates a small Market Hall in Radcliffe with approximately 34 stalls (this is one of the three market sites within the borough) The market is based on Blackburn Street within the centre of Radcliffe, the site is: • A short walk from the Metrolink station with a frequent direct service to Bury and Manchester and the wider tram and train network. • Well positioned in terms of local motorways with the M60, M61, M62 and M66 all in close proximity. Radcliffe is likely to experience significant growth in housing building over the next ten years. Master planning is already underway on a number of sites with a recently opened modern Health Centre located on the route between the Metrolink station and the town centre. Work has commenced on the building of a Lidl supermarket adjacent to the Market Hall with the development due to commence imminently. In partnership with the Council, TfGM (Transport for Greater Manchester) invested in a new bus station facility in close proximity to the Market building and the Council is also seeking opportunities to redevelop vacant Council owned premises on Dale Street. The Market building is considered to be a key asset in the ongoing process of regenerating the Town Centre. It looks out on the River Irwell which has historically been an underused asset but one that has potential to play a greater role in the attractiveness of the Town. In November 2015 the Market underwent a major refurbishment, modelled on a traditional market, at a cost of approximately £1million and included a large "picture" window to draw on the feature of the river. The refurbishment included updating of all utilities, a new roof including solar panels, new entrances, feature picture window and all stalls fitted with individually metered electricity supply, some with water supply and all fitted with electric shutters. The current layout of the site comprises 34 stalls and a cafe. The former are let under licence and the latter subject to a lease. Market days are every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday However there is a perceived lack of demand for such an offer from both the public and stallholders; as a result of this the Council is interested in alternative "offers" that would generate significant footfall in Radcliffe Town Centre and is keen to expand on the number of days the site is open and also to extend its current Friday evening offer. The Council is therefore looking to appoint an operator to undertake a range of services in order to create a successful market.