Council invites tenders from mobile food and drink traders for five greenspace sites

Mobile food and drink traders are invited to tender for catering concessions across five of the borough’s parks and greenspaces.

Cheshire West and Chester Council is looking for businesses to provide high quality refreshments at: Marbury Park and Shakerley Mere Country Park, Northwich; Rivacre Valley, Ellesmere Port; Gresty’s Waste, Kelsall and Sandy Lane, Chester.

The Council’s Parks and Open Spaces Strategy encourages the introduction of suitable concessions in appropriate locations, and national Safer Parks guidance highlights that regular, responsible trading can help create busier, more comfortable spaces, particularly for women, girls and families.

Tenders are now being invited through ‘The Chest’, the Council’s procurement portal, for licences to trade during daylight hours.

Traders can apply for one or more sites. Opportunities include the sale of hot and cold drinks, hot food, ice cream and snacks, subject to site‑specific conditions. Concessions will be let for a two‑year contract, with an option for two extensions of one year each (1+1).

The Council is looking for operators who can demonstrate responsible, sustainable and environmentally friendly practice, such as using biodegradable packaging, sourcing local ingredients, operating self‑contained mobile units and holding a five‑star food hygiene rating.

Successful tenderers will be expected to provide a consistent presence during weekends, school holidays and peak visitor periods.

Councillor Stuart Bingham, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Neighbourhood Pride, said:

“Our parks and green spaces play a vital role in the wellbeing of our communities, and we want them to feel safe, vibrant and welcoming for everyone. Introducing responsible, well‑managed concessions helps create places where people want to spend time, while supporting local businesses and encouraging sustainable, high‑quality food offers. We look forward to seeing applications from traders who share our values and commitment to our local environment.”

If any business is interested in proposing a concession at a park not included within this tender opportunity, they are encouraged to contact: 

serviceliaisonteam@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk 

...with their ideas or proposals.

All queries or clarification requests relating directly to the tender must be submitted through The Chest before the deadline of 10am on Tuesday 10th March 2026.

Full tender documents, requirements and submission details are available on The Chest.