Barton's point café and outdoor learning opportunities
Published
Friday 4 September, 2026
Updated
Friday 4 September, 2026
Swale Borough Council wants to team up with experienced operators to make a popular 31-hectare destination a vibrant, year-round attraction for the local community and visitors.
The council is looking for passionate organisations to run the café and introduce new outdoor learning activities at Barton’s Point Coastal Park on the Isle of Sheppey.
There are two opportunities available, which are offered either independently or could be operated by a single organisation:
- The Old Boathouse Café – the provider will run a food and beverage service from the lakeside timber-clad building and its enclosed patio. The ideal partner will actively bring the community together by hosting inclusive events and local activities.
- Outdoor Learning – the provider will bring structured outdoor education to the park. Providers will work alongside our greenspaces ranger, local schools, and community groups to teach environmental awareness and wellbeing.
The council will continue managing the park's open spaces, playground, and bridge to make sure the site remains clean and accessible for everyone.
Cllr Dolley Wooster, chair of the council’s environmental services and climate change committee, said:
"Barton's Point offers a fantastic green space, and we want it to reach its full potential.
"By bringing in dedicated local experts to run the café and outdoor activities, we would like to ensure our community gets access to a high quality offer, in way that encourages the use of what is a fantastic asset.
“We will continue to protect the park's natural beauty and keep the grounds maintained, all while securing a sustainable, long-term future for the site that benefits everyone."
Potential providers can submit joint proposals that cover both opportunities, as well as individual applications for either the café or the outdoor learning provision.
Applicants must submit a business plan, financial projections for at least three years, and clear details on how their operation will benefit the local community.
For more information, or to arrange a viewing, visit swale.gov.uk/tendering-opportunities.
Please submit any expressions of interest by 12pm on Monday 5 October 2026 to jayjenkins@swale.gov.uk.
