Provision of operation and management services for Wicklow Gaol and its associated facilities. Initial contract: 2 years

Tender description

The Contracting Authority (CA) proposes to engage in a competitive process for the establishment of a Single-Party Framework Agreement for the provision of operation and management services for Wicklow Gaol and its associated facilities. The initial contract under the framework will be for a period of two years. A framework agreement constitutes a means of establishing the overall terms and conditions under which individual contracts may (but are not guaranteed to) be awarded over a specified period. In a single-party framework, the appointed framework member is not required to re-compete for subsequent contracts. It is emphasised that the establishment of a framework agreement does not guarantee the purchase of any specific quantity of services from the successful Tenderer. The Contracting Authority reserves the right to operate outside of the framework should it determine that better value for money can be achieved elsewhere. Notwithstanding this, the framework approach is being adopted to leverage efficiencies and maximise cost-effectiveness over the life of the agreement. Wicklow County Council intends to establish the framework to cover all aspects of the operation and management of Wicklow Gaol, including but not limited to the main Gaol complex, exhibition areas, café, and associated external spaces. The successful Tenderer will be awarded an initial contract of two years, with the possibility of further contracts being awarded under the framework in line with performance and evolving strategic needs. The framework agreement will run for a period of four years, subject to mutual agreement and satisfactory performance. The scope of services is strategic and wide-ranging, encompassing: • Full day-to-day operation of Wicklow Gaol; • Delivery of a high-quality visitor experience; • Strategic development of tours, events, and programming; • Marketing and promotional activity; • Financial and resource management; • Operation and management of the on-site café (including subcontracting, where relevant); • Community engagement initiatives; • Recruitment, training, and management of staff; • Compliance with the Conservation Management Plan and all relevant heritage and regulatory obligations. The successful operator will be expected to work in close collaboration with Wicklow County Council, Fáilte Ireland, the Board of Wicklow Gaol, and other relevant stakeholders to achieve shared objectives for tourism and cultural development in the region. Any contracts awarded under the framework will detail the relevant performance requirements, governance arrangements, profit-sharing mechanisms, and reporting obligations for the period of the call-off.