Bedford Borough Council is seeking a development partner to enter into a Development Agreement for the regeneration of Mayes Yard, a 3.5-acre town centre site. The vision is a mixed-use cultural hub—combining around 250 new homes, retail, leisure, commercial spaces, a re-provisioned Central Library, and an expanded Corn Exchange with over 1,000 seats. 

Estimated Value & Timeline

• Project GDV (Gross Development Value): GBP 12 million (US$ 16 million) (including VAT) 

• Contract Duration: 31 March 2026 – 1 April 2034 (approx. 8 years) 

Procurement Details

• Procedure: Competitive flexible procedure, starting with a Request to Participate, then shortlisting up to three bidders (with a possibility to invite four if scores are tight)

• Participation Deadline: 14 July 2025, 13:00 BST 

• Tender and award stages include meetings with shortlisted teams and final evaluation based on Quality (60%), Financial (30%), and Legal (10%) criteria 

Scope & Objectives

• Emphasis on innovative concept and delivery plans (30% weighting each within Quality)