Scope
Reference
P-0934
Description
Manchester's annual festive programme is one of the most celebrated in Europe, attracting millions of visitors and creating a vibrant seasonal atmosphere across the city. As part of Manchester City Council's commitment to enhancing the city's cultural and event offering, we seek competent proposals for the delivery of Albert Square's Christmas attraction from 2026 onwards.
Historically, Manchester's Christmas activities have included the award-winning Christmas Markets, an ice rink at Cathedral Gardens, and a range of family-friendly installations. With the full reopening of Albert Square following Town Hall regeneration works, the Council aims to create a world-class festive destination that complements the existing city-wide offer and strengthens Manchester's reputation as a leading winter destination.
The requirement is for a Christmas attraction in Albert Square, operating seven days a week during the festive period (November to early January), featuring the following core elements:
An ice rink, managed and installed by the appointed operator, providing a safe and authentic skating experience for visitors. The proposal should include rink size, capacity, and associated facilities such as skate hire and changing areas.
A varied food and beverage offering, aligned with the Manchester Christmas Markets ethos, catering for diverse tastes and dietary requirements while delivering a sense of place.
Family-friendly festive attractions, which may include (but are not limited to) an ice bar, curling rink, ice sculptures, an observatory wheel, rides, funfair, or other creative installations that enhance the visitor experience and differentiate Albert Square from other UK festive destinations.
Seasonal theming and dressing, including Christmas decorations, lighting features, projections, music, and branded signage to create a cohesive and welcoming environment.
The successful operator will be responsible for full site management, including stewarding, first aid, staffing, security, emergency procedures, and compliance with all licensing and health and safety requirements. Marketing and promotion of the attraction will also form part of the operator's obligations, working in partnership with Manchester City Council to maximise visitor engagement.
It is anticipated that to deliver these elements, the winning contractor will need to source equipment and collaborate with specialist providers where necessary. All proposals should demonstrate creativity, operational competence, and a commitment to sustainability, social value, and community engagement.
The Council is using the e-business portal known as the Chest. Applicants will need to register their details at the following link www.the-chest.org.uk . Once registered, applicants will be emailed a log-in and password which will allow them to gain access to the documentation relating to this opportunity
Total value (estimated)
- £20,000,000 excluding VAT
- £24,000,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2029
- Possible extension to 30 June 2031
- 5 years
Description of possible extension:
2 optional 12 months extensions
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 45223800 - Assembly and erection of prefabricated structures
- 55520000 - Catering services
- 79710000 - Security services
- 79952000 - Event services
- 79953000 - Festival organisation services
- 79956000 - Fair and exhibition organisation services
- 92300000 - Entertainment services
Contract locations
- UKD33 - Manchester
Participation
Legal and financial capacity conditions of participation
See tender documents
Technical ability conditions of participation
See tender documents
Submission
Enquiry deadline
23 January 2026, 11:59pm
Tender submission deadline
13 February 2026, 11:00am
Submission address and any special instructions
The Council is using the e-business portal known as the Chest. Applicants will need to register their details at the following link www.the-chest.org.uk . Once registered, applicants will be emailed a log-in and password which will allow them to gain access to the documentation relating to this opportunity
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
19 June 2026
Award criteria
| Name | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | Quality | 45% |
| Social Value and Zero Carbon | Quality | 30% |
| Price | Price | 25% |
Other information
Applicable trade agreements
- Government Procurement Agreement (GPA)
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Special regime
Concession
Documents
Associated tender documents
http://www.the-chest.org.uk
The Council is using the e-business portal known as the Chest. Applicants will need to register their details at the following link www.the-chest.org.uk . Once registered, applicants will be emailed a log-in and password which will allow them to gain access to the documentation relating to this opportunity. Applicants will need to electronically submit their completed tender documents, including procurement specific questionnaire, via the on-line portal by 16:00 on 13/02/2026 as referred to in the tender documentation. Any clarification queries must also be submitted via the Chest website by the date referred to in the tender documentation.
https://procontract.due-north.com/Procurer/Advert/AdvertSummary?projectId=d3b192cc-a3ca-f011-813a-005056b64545&projectStepId=dbb192cc-a3ca-f011-813a-005056b64545
Contracting authority
Manchester City Council
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PLNV-8798-LDMP
Town Hall Extension
Manchester
M60 2LA
United Kingdom
Email: procurement@manchester.gov.uk
Website: https://www.manchester.gov.uk/
Region: UKD33 - Manchester
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government