Search for new operator of Kirkleatham Walled Garden, near Redcar

Redcar and Cleveland Council is due to begin a formal procurement process this month which will run until the end of July.

Answering a question from Councillor Karen King at a full meeting of the council, deputy leader Carrie Richardson in delivering an update also said she was “absolutely confident” that a new operator would be secured.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service previously revealed how catering, hospitality and facilities services firm Elior has exercised a break clause available under existing contract terms with the council to relinquish its management of the site from the end of August.

The walled garden, situated off the A174 on the outskirts of Redcar and part of the historic Kirkleatham estate, re-opened to the public in 2021 after a £10m restoration project.

As well as the gardens themselves, which are largely maintained by volunteers, the complex contains a café and events pavilion which regularly hosts weddings and other social functions.

Elior previously said it had contacted members of the public with bookings from September onwards and is understood to have offered full refunds to those affected.

Councillor Mary Ovens said it was the catering element that caused her most concern.

She said: “The biggest complaint I have had from residents and visitors to the gardens is that sometimes they will say the food was fabulous and other times it leaves a lot to be desired.

“It’s very important that we get the catering side right because it is a fabulous facility.”

Elior’s pull-out means the council will take over the remaining lease, but Cllr Richardson has already said the local authority lacks the skills and capacity to run the venue on a permanent basis.

In a statement last month, the council said Elior’s decision to withdraw as operator had caused “great upset” for those who had booked events and it would look to appoint a replacement as soon as possible.

It said it was a “much much‑loved and beautiful venue, valued by residents and visitors alike, and remains an important asset to the borough”.

Elior was handed a so-called concession contract by the council lasting up to ten years to operate the venue.

This meant that, while some initial direct costs were covered by the council, the local authority would not be paying Elior for its services. 

Instead the arrangement allowed the council to receive ‘turnover rent’ from the company, subject to adjustments.

The unfolding situation at the walled gardens comes amidst a masterplan being drawn up by council officers to maximise the potential of the historic Kirkleatham estate, which has several listed building features.

It was also confirmed earlier this year that the Festival of Thrift will return in July after a three year absence.