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Provision, Installation and Operation of Christmas Attractions in Albert Square Manchester

Descriptions

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

Timeline

Published Date :

24th Dec 2025 Today

Deadline :

13th Feb 2026 in a 1 month

Contract Start :

30th Jun 2026

Contract End :

30th Jun 2029

Tender Regions

Keywords

prefab structure assembly

modular building erection

prefabricated component installation

panel assembly construction

pre-built framework erection

modular unit assembly

industrial prefab construction

prefabricated building works

structural component assembly

modular design installation

professional food service

event catering provision

customized meal delivery

group dining setup

contracted catering operations

flexible menu services

food service logistics

offsite meal preparation

catering staff service

food presentation solutions

security services

guarding services

property protection

asset security

premises security

security officer deployment

static guarding

mobile patrol

corporate security

infrastructure security

event services

event management

corporate event coordination

live event planning

event logistics

special event organisation

celebration management

conference events

event staging

event production

festival organisation

festival planning

music festival management

cultural festival coordination

community festival logistics

outdoor festival services

street festival planning

celebratory festival setup

festival event staffing

urban festival staging

fair and exhibition organisation

trade fair planning

exhibition coordination

expo logistics

booth management

trade show services

exhibition design setup

convention services

exhibitor support

exposition management

live entertainment provision

event hosting

cultural shows

performance arts services

theatrical and musical event operations

public entertainment management

festival production services

Tender Lot Details

2 Tender Lots

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Workflows

Status :

Open

Procedure :

N/A

Suitable for SME :

N/A

Nationwide :

No

Assign to :

Tender Progress :

0%

Details

Notice Type :

Tender

Tender Identifier :

IT-378-246-T: 2024 - 001

Tenderbase ID :

310724019

Low Value :

£100K

High Value :

£1000K

Buyer Information

Address :

Liverpool Merseyside , Merseyside , L13 0BQ

Website :

N/A

Procurement contact

Name :

Tina Smith

Phone :

0151 252 3243

Email :

tina.smith@shared-ed.ac.uk

Possible Competitors

1 Possible Competitors