Native Land Announces Search for LGBTQ+ Space Operators at London's Bankside Yards
September 12, 2023Property developer and co-investor company Native Land has launched a search for operators of a brand-new LGBTQ+ cultural space in London's Bankside. With support from the Southwark LGBT Network, who have partnered with Native Land, the Southwark Council and Greater London Authority have announced this opportunity to create an impactful LGBTQ+ cultural space.
Located within two historic railway arches at Bankside Yards, Native Land and its partners are looking for a business-savvy, creative concept that provides a long-lasting cultural space for London. They are also looking for operators that will provide a positive impact for the LGBTQ+ community.
Native Land has issued a Request for Proposals (RfP) for the 5,000 square feet of space over the course of the next three months, ending on October 13, 2023. Recent developments saw Mandarin Oriental announce a third London hotel at Bankside Yards, as well as plans to build 700 new homes (rental and private). Southwark Council will deliver the new housing, receiving a financial contribution of around £65 million.
A collaboration between the Southwark LGBT Network, the Greater London Authority and a cross-party selection of local councillors will deliver the project. Potential operators interested in the project are encouraged to submit proposals via the Bankside Yards website, detailing how they will create a progressive, cultural amenity for LGBTQ+ individuals. They can also request an entrants’ pack, which includes a brochure, site plans, terms of reference, and head lease information. There is a wide range of potential for the use of space, such as live performances, cultural gatherings, general events and workshops.
In fact, this space is near to where Pulse hosted the popular LGBTQ+ XXL Club, until it closed down in September 2019. However, it's important to note that new occupants won't receive a late-night license, so no nightclubs will be considered this time.
Alasdair Nicholls, Chief Executive of Native Land, spoke about their vision and what they aim to deliver. “Our vision for Bankside Yards will deliver a truly mixed-use neighborhood, connecting cultural uses with world-class businesses, a range of new homes, and both independent and global retail and hospitality brands,” said Nicholls. “The delivery of the LGBTQ+ space within the renovated railway arches ensures this important community continues to be a part of the area, with the potential to provide the diverse opportunities for art, culture and support that help Bankside thrive.”
A panel will be held to evaluate the submitted proposals based on their value to the community and viability as a business. Members of the panel include Chair of Southwark LGBT Network, Nathan Lewis, Executive Director of Native Land, Andrew Locke, and Rachael Roe, Senior Culture Officer at Greater London Authority.
Cllr Stephanie Cryan, Cabinet Member for Communities, Democracy & Finance at Southwark Council, shared the potential for the venue and expressed excitement at seeing the proposals: “This new LGBTQ+ cultural centre presents a fantastic future venue for the borough and for London. Southwark has a proud history of LGBTQ+ allyship, reflected in the fact that we have the fourth largest lesbian, gay and bisexual community in the country, and the fifth largest transgender community. We must continue to provide unwavering support and fantastic services for our LGBTQ+ residents in Southwark and across the city.
“We’re delighted that one of our prominent development partners is working with us to launch this flagship space that will be a haven to the LGBTQ+ community. I cannot wait to see what exciting offers, plans and ambitions may come forward for the use of this stunning and vast space by Blackfriars station.”