Councillors will consider the next operator for the SoBo Beach site in Southbourne after BCP Council received five expressions of interest for the seafront premises. Councillors will decide next week who should run the SoBo Beach site in Southbourne. The lease for the section of Southbourne Promenade land, which is currently occupied by the SoBo Beach café and bar, is due to end on October 31. BCP Council has marketed the site and wants an operator in place from December 1. A cabinet report says five expressions of interest were received, with three bidders shortlisted for interviews and pr
Councillors will decide next week who should run the SoBo Beach site in Southbourne.
The lease for the section of Southbourne Promenade land, which is currently occupied by the SoBo Beach café and bar, is due to end on October 31. BCP Council has marketed the site and wants an operator in place from December 1.
A cabinet report says five expressions of interest were received, with three bidders shortlisted for interviews and presentations. After assessing the financial, operational and strategic parts of each bid, officers recommend talks with “the proposed operator”.
The name of that operator has not been published because the report includes “commercially sensitive” information. The council says the bidder offers the highest guaranteed and projected rental income, hospitality experience, an established local presence and plans to improve the seafront offer.
Councillor Richard Herrett, portfolio holder for destination, leisure and commercial operations, said the process was opened to “all interested operators” and created a “fair and competitive opportunity”.
He said bids had included visions that would create jobs, bring investment and support the wider economy. BCP Council’s cabinet is due to consider the proposal on Wednesday.
