Durham County Council is seeking an experienced and innovative delivery partner to develop and deliver a new flagship cultural event for County Durham. The Council is looking for a bold, ambitious and distinctive proposition that represents a step change from traditional festival models and has the potential to become a recurring, nationally recognised event. The successful proposal should be original, participatory and rooted in County Durham's unique identity, bringing together culture, creativity, innovation, technology and community engagement. The event should create a defining cultural moment for the county, enhancing its reputation as a place of creativity and excellence, while delivering lasting cultural, social and economic benefits. Proposals must demonstrate strong opportunities for participation, skills development and talent progression, particularly for children and young people, ensuring local communities play an active role in shaping and delivering the event.

Renewal: 2 years + 2 years + 2 years, as this is will be a bi-annual event. Multiple extensions are possible depending on the success of the first festival in 2027.

Procurement Act 2023

Competitive flexible procedure

Concession

The documents must be downloaded from www.open-uk.org using the reference 20261993. These will be available from 9th September 2026. Any questions must be raised though this Open system for a response