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Seasonal Observation Wheel Opportunity at Bedgebury National Pinetum

Forestry Commission Published 1 Apr 2026 Find a Tender

key details

Statusplanning
Category (CPV) 92000000
SME suitableYes
OCIDocds-h6vhtk-067ac6

description

Forestry England is seeking early market engagement from suitably experienced Observation wheel ride operators regarding a potential seasonal concession opportunity at Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, one of the UK’s leading outdoor family destinations.

Our aim is to explore the feasibility of hosting a temporary observation wheel installation during peak visitor periods to enhance the visitor experience and support wider site engagement. We invite operators to provide feedback on operational models, revenue share arrangements, technical requirements, and overall suitability.

We are investigating firstly a seasonal trial to sit within the 28 days permitted development over the summer, with the potential to use evidence from this to create a longer-term model.

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About Bedgebury National Pinetum:

Bedgebury National Pinetum attracts a wide and diverse visitor base, particularly families, local members, cyclists, runners, and wellness users. Current site concessions include:

A well established café
Go Ape high ropes
Bike hire provision
A dedicated learning & education provider
Delivery of multiple activities through our Active Forests programme, including running, cycling, caniX, yoga, forest bathing, and wellbeing events

Any new attraction must be sympathetic to the pinetum environment, the landscape setting, and our established visitor profile, while contributing positively to visitor enjoyment and dwell time.

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Opportunity Scope: Seasonal Observation Wheel Installation:

Forestry England is specifically seeking feedback regarding the feasibility and commercial potential of hosting a mid size (~30m) temporary Observation wheel on site. We welcome interest from operators able to provide:

Fully managed supply, installation, operation, and removal of an observation wheel
ADIPS certified equipment and compliance with all relevant safety standards
Clear information on technical, logistical, and infrastructure requirements
Commercial models including:
oRevenue share arrangements
oCommission based structures
oMinimum Guarantee + % turnover

We are particularly interested in hearing from suppliers who have experience operating wheels in natural, heritage, or environmentally sensitive settings, including parks, gardens, arboreta, or forestry environments.

Estimated start date: 05/08/2026

Estimated end date: 01/09/2026

Running dates are flexible

Engagement Deadline: 5pm 17/04/2026

notice history

1 notice published against this procurement.

PublishedTypeRegimeNotice
1 Apr 2026 Preliminary market engagement (UK2) Procurement Act 2023 030379-2026

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