Operating The Blackwood Miners’ Institute

Procurement reference

CCBC/PS3030/26/HS

Procurement description

Blackwood Miners' Institute (BMI) is a cultural landmark with a proud history. Caerphilly County Borough Council (CCBC) is seeking to appoint an external operator to lead the artistic, cultural, community and commercial activity of this Grade II listed historic venue

Following a comprehensive review of the venue's future operating model, CCBC is now commencing a formal procurement process to identify a suitably experienced organisation to manage and develop Blackwood Miners' Institute. The Council is inviting applications from organisations with proven expertise in cultural, arts, heritage, entertainment and venue management, and a strong track record of delivering sustainable and community focused operations.

The successful operator will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and operational management of the venue, ensuring the delivery of a high quality artistic and cultural programme, engaging local communities, maximising commercial opportunities and safeguarding the long term sustainability of the Institute.

Through this tender opportunity, CCBC is seeking an operator that can demonstrate a clear vision for the future of Blackwood Miners' Institute, building upon its heritage and reputation while developing a vibrant, financially resilient, and inclusive cultural destination.

Tenderers will be required to submit responses in accordance with the requirements set out within the procurement documentation. Submissions will be evaluated against the published criteria, including quality, financial sustainability, operational capability, and community impact. Following evaluation, CCBC intends to appoint a preferred operator and enter into a contractual agreement for the management and operation of Blackwood Miners' Institute.

This opportunity represents a unique chance to shape the future of one of Wales' most significant cultural venues and to contribute to the continued cultural, social, and economic development of the local community.

Full details can be found in the Initiation to Tender (ITT) Pack

Main category

Services

Delivery regions

• UKL16 - Gwent Valleys

Total value (estimated, excluding VAT)

1600000.00 GBP to 1600000.00GBP

Contract dates (estimated)

01 February 2027, 00:00AM to 31 January 2032, 23:59PM

Extension end date (if all the extensions are used): 31 January 2037

Caerphilly County Borough Council

Procedure type

Open procedure

Is the total value above threshold?

Above threshold

Trade agreements

Government Procurement Agreement (GPA)

CPV classifications

• 70330000 - Property management services of real estate on a fee or contract basis
• 92520000 - Museum services and preservation services of historical sites and buildings
• 92310000 - Artistic and literary creation and interpretation services
• 92320000 - Arts-facility operation services
• 92330000 - Recreational-area services
• 92340000 - Dance and performance entertainment services

Delivery regions

• UKL16 - Gwent Valleys

Lot value (estimated)

1600000.00 GBP Excluding VAT

2000000.00 GBP Including VAT

Sustainability

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)

Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)

Contract start date (estimated)

01 February 2027, 00:00AM

Contract end date (estimated)

31 January 2032, 23:59PM

Extension end date (estimated)

31 January 2037, 23:59PM

Can the contract be extended?

Yes

Description of extensions

With the option to extend for a further period of up to five (5) years.

Award criteria

Tender submission deadline

18 November 2026, 12:00PM

Enquiry deadline

11 November 2026, 17:00PM

Date of award of contract

14 December 2026, 23:59PM

Submission address and any special instructions

https://supplierlive.proactisp2p.com/Account/Login#

May tenders be submitted electronically?

Yes

Languages that may be used for submission

• English
• Welsh