Tender: Christmas Light Trail at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey — 10-Year Concession to Deliver Annual Illuminated Trail

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Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is seeking a supplier to design and deliver an annual, ticketed six-week outdoor illuminated light trail across its c.180‑acre arboretum near Romsey, running between late November and early January. The appointed provider will handle light trail design and installation, e‑ticketing, marketing and full event management including staffing, stewarding, security, logistics, sourcing additional parking if required, health and safety compliance, and provision of catering facilities at the contract outset, while ensuring a safe, accessible and inclusive visitor experience that respects the Grade II listed landscape. The Council intends to award a 10‑year concession contract; the provider will pay a £125,000 per annum fee (excluding VAT) for use of the premises, with an additional concession fee payable on ticket income above 75,000 visitors, and a growth target towards 90,000 visitors. The successful bidder will work collaboratively with the Gardens and Hampshire County Council to align the event with the charity’s objectives.