Bude-Stratton Town Council is inviting suitably qualified consultants to submit proposals to develop a financially sustainable business plan for The Castle Heritage Centre.
This commission will support the long-term management and future direction of one of Bude’s key heritage and community assets.
The opportunity
The appointed consultant will be commissioned to produce an independent five-year business plan for The Castle Heritage Centre.
The business plan should define a clear vision and business model for the future management and operation of the facility. This work follows an internal audit and a subsequent Working Group review, which recommended the development of a professional business plan.
About The Castle Heritage Centre
The Castle is a Grade II listed, Romantic-style building constructed in 1830 by Cornish engineer and inventor Sir Goldsworthy Gurney.
It operates as an award-winning heritage centre with exhibition galleries, archive space and a shop, all managed by Bude-Stratton Town Council. The site also includes a café and a licensed wedding and events venue, set within landscaped grounds overlooking Summerleaze Beach.
Scope of work
The consultant will be required to produce a five-year business plan that includes:
- A clear vision for The Castle Heritage Centre, informed by the findings of the Working Group and the Town Council Vision 2025–2029
- A review of staffing across the facility, including staff costs as a proportion of takings and recommendations for an appropriate staffing structure
- Identification of minimum profit levels for the café, exhibition areas and shop
- A review of local market competition in relation to the café offer
- Recommendations for the most efficient and profitable use of retail space
- A review of weddings and events provision, including suggested improvements, pricing structures and delivery models
Budget and timescale
- Budget: £6,000
- Timescale: All work to be completed within six weeks of commissioning
How to apply
Proposals should include:
- Relevant experience
- An outline of the proposed approach
- Costs to deliver the work
Proposals must be submitted by email to:
office@bude-stratton.gov.uk
Deadline for submission: 5pm on Friday 20 March 2026
Shortlisted consultants will be invited to interview during the week beginning Monday 6 April 2026.
Further information
For further information, please contact:
Ian Saltern
Deputy Town Clerk
Telephone: 01288 353576
Email: deputyclerk@bude-stratton.gov.uk
Full project brief
The full project brief and tender documentation is available to download below:
Business Plan for The Castle Heritage Centre – Project Brief (PDF)
