Expressions of Interest for the operation of the Café at Camden Fort Meagher

Background and Summary

Cork County Council is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified and experienced catering companies or individuals for the unique opportunity to operate a café at Camden Fort Meagher.

Camden Fort Meagher is located in Crosshaven, Co. Cork, situated in Ireland’s Ancient East and a mere 30 kilometers from Kinsale which is the beginning/end of the Wild Atlantic Way. The earliest fortification on the site was constructed in 1550 however the present fort was upgraded in 1779 to support the naval defence of Cork Harbour during the Victorian era. Camden Fort Meagher is internationally recognised as one of the finest remaining examples of a classical Coastal Artillery Fort in the world.

The fort has been operating as a heritage tourist site since 2012. Since opening, the fort was open to visitors on weekends during the summer months only. From 2024 onwards, the site will be open to visitors from March to October from Wednesday to Sunday and also Bank Holidays. Special evening events and group tours will also be hosted on site. The highlight for many of the visitors who come to the site is being treated to captivating views of the stunning Cork Harbour from the tea rooms balcony.

The provision of a good quality and reliable service at this location is of upmost importance for the Council. The operation of the café is initially for the 2024 season.

Catering & Submission Requirements

The internal café area is approximately 100sq meters with seating provided. Additional seating is provided for external use on the rear balcony which caters for up to approx. 60 people. Expressions of interest will be assessed on the listed requirements and experience. Submissions should include details of:

Requirements:

  • The proposal should give detailed information on the type of café offering proposed to include food, beverages, eat-in and take out options.
  • It is required that the café operate on the same daytime hours as the fort.
  • Proposed pricing structure (food, soft drinks and hot beverages).
  • Proposed staffing and management structure.
  • Proposed marketing and publicity strategy.
  • Knowledge of and commitment to compliance with all health and safety and legal standards and operational procedures of a catering business.
  • Proposal for dealing with waste disposal and cleaning requirements of both the café and adjacent toilet facilities.
  • Agreement to any other requirements that can be negotiated at a later date.
  • Availability to commence operation in March 2024 (or April 2024 at the latest).

Experience:

The operator must have relevant business experience and must show evidence in their submission of:

  • Previous and current operations in the catering business.
  • Training in catering or hospitality management.
  • Experience in merchandising and marketing.
  • Names and contact details for two references, one financial and one most recent employer or leaseholder.

Site Visit

A site visit to view the premises and facilities at the Camden Fort Meagher Cafe can be arranged by appointment. Interested parties wishing to avail of this opportunity should contact the Manager of Camden Fort Meagher at info@camdenfortmeagher.ie.

Closing Date

The closing date is 4pm on Friday, 16th February 2024.

Expressions of Interest will be accepted by post or email and must be clearly marked “Camden Fort Meagher Café Expression of Interest” and addressed to:

Manager of Camden Fort Meagher,

Cork County Council,

Floor 5, County Hall,

Carrigrohane Road,

Cork.

T12 R2NC.

or by email at: info@camdenfortmeagher.ie.