The Overview and Scrutiny Committee – Services of Guildford Council convened to discuss the G Live Contract Award. The committee recommended the appointment of Trafalgar Entertainment Group as the operator of G Live for a 25-year contract. This decision was based on a comprehensive procurement process that evaluated the commercial and technical capabilities of the bidders.

G Live Contract Award

Presentation and Procurement Process

Julian Russell from Blue Horizon, a consultancy firm, presented the procurement process and the outcome. He detailed the history of G Live, which has been operated by Trafalgar Theatres since 2021. The Council had initially entered a 10-year contract with HQ Theatres in 2011, which was extended due to the pandemic. The new contract aims to secure the long-term future of G Live through a 25-year lease with Trafalgar Entertainment Group.

Evaluation Criteria

The procurement process involved a two-stage evaluation focusing on method statements, commercial models, and legal arrangements. The method statements covered operational success, creative learning, community engagement, and sustainability. The commercial model included guaranteed rent and potential gain-share, while the legal arrangements ensured a fully repairing and insuring lease.

Decision and Benefits

The committee decided to recommend Trafalgar Entertainment Group based on their comprehensive and innovative proposal. The new contract will eliminate the Council's annual subsidy of £275,000 and instead provide a guaranteed rent of £240,000 per annum, increasing with RPI. Additionally, over £5 million will be invested in the venue over the contract term, enhancing both the facilities and the community engagement programs.

Community and Economic Impact

Councillor Catherine Houston highlighted the importance of G Live as a cultural asset contributing £4 million annually to the local economy. The new contract will ensure that G Live continues to offer a diverse range of performances and community activities, thereby supporting local businesses and enhancing Guildford's cultural landscape.

Sustainability and Social Value

The contract includes commitments to sustainability and social value, aligning with the Council's net-zero targets by 2030. Trafalgar Entertainment Group has pledged to implement energy-efficient practices and reduce carbon emissions, contributing to the Council's broader environmental goals.

Questions and Clarifications

Councillors raised questions about the long-term viability of the venue, the profit-sharing model, and the potential for community events. Julian Russell assured that the contract includes mechanisms to evaluate and adapt the venue's operations over time, ensuring its continued success and relevance.

For more details, you can refer to the Agenda frontsheet, Public reports pack, and the G Live Contract Award Report.