Parks and open spaces mobile concession trials 2026

We are inviting expressions of interest from both experienced and new mobile catering providers to take part in a five month summer trial of mobile concessions.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to operators both within and outside the borough, who can provide high-quality food and beverage offers that enhance the visitor experience in a park or green space setting.

Self-sufficiency

Water and electricity is not provided. Operators must be fully self-sufficient, including:

• Power supply (battery or diesel generator where appropriate)
• Water supply
• Waste and recycling removal

Restrictions

The following are not permitted:

• Sale of alcohol or tobacco products
• Ice cream vendors
• Marketing or promotional activities
• Subletting of pitches
• Sale of general or other goods

Environmental standards

Mobile catering operators are expected to demonstrate responsible sourcing and environmentally sustainable practices that support our wider commitments to climate, health, and community wellbeing.

Operators should be able to show how they:

• Source food and goods responsibly
• Minimise environmental impact
• Reduce waste and carbon emissions
• Support fair and ethical labour practices 

Clean, environmentally responsible operation is mandatory. Failure to meet minimum standards for operating in a green space may result in termination of the concession.

Insurance

The following insurance is required for operators:

• Public Liability - minimum £5 million per occurrence
• Employer's Liability - minimum £10 million per occurrence (if applicable)
• Motor Vehicle Insurance - Third party liability (as required)

Locations

Concessions are available in the following locations:

• Barnes Green
• Castelnau Recreation Ground
• King Georges Field
• Moormead and Bandy Recreation Ground
• Mortlake Green
• Murray Park
• Richmond Riverside (Near Herron Square)
• Richmond Green
• Small Profits Dock
• Terrace Gardens
• Towpath Teddington Lock/Ham House

Any sites situated on or within 7 metres of the highway will require an additional licence for street trading. 

Other sites

If you are interested in a site not listed, please include this in your application, however not all sites will be suitable.

Applications cannot be made for Royal Parks.

Hours of operation

Up to 7 days per week are available, at 8 to 12 hours per day. This is subject to daylight and park opening hours.

The minimum requirement is 4 hours per day, 2 days per week.

Operators must vacate the site at the end of each trading day, with no onsite storage to be provided.

All operating hours are subject to alteration at our discretion and may change without prior notice.

Fees

Fees are as follows:

• £25 per day (minimum 2 days per week); or
• £400 to £600 per month for a regular pitch (up to 6 days per week, subject to application) 

All fees are payable monthly, in advance. 

How to apply

Interested providers should complete the online expression of interest form. 

You'll need to provide:

• Your contact details
• Your preferred site
• Detail about your business, including information about your vehicle or stall, the cuisine you'll be selling, and the type of equipment you'll be operating
• Your prior experience of running a concession stand (if applicable)
• Your proposed operating hours
• Detail on how you'll manage waste and litter

Submit your application

Application outcome

Applications will be reviewed on a first come, first served basis and assessed for suitability. We will contact you to let you know the outcome of your application.

Successful applicants will be awarded an indicative five month summer to autumn trial contract, for the duration of June to October. 

High scoring unsuccessful applicants may be offered alternative suitable locations, subject to availability.

Extended trails may be considered until March 2027, on a case-by-case basis. 

Disclaimer

We reserve the right to suspend or close any concession at any time, at our discretion. This will be reflected in the contract.

Submission of an application does not create any right or entitlement to operate a mobile catering concession in Council-managed parks or open spaces.

We retain absolute discretion to approve or refuse applications and are not obliged to provide reasons. Meeting published criteria does not guarantee approval.