Little Venice is currently home to a number of quirky boat-based business including trip boats and tours, a café, B&B and even a barge-based puppet theatre. The Trust, is floating a one-off opportunity to establish a new boating business that will enhance the appeal of this unique area for visitors, tourists and locals, while appreciating the character and tranquillity of the location.
London's canals and rivers are busier than at the height of the Industrial Revolution: last year around 65 million visits were made to the Capital's towpaths, while the waterways are home to over 4,800 boats. Popular as a place to escape the rat-race and get in touch with nature and history, London's longest linear park offers something for everybody.
Mike Grimes, head of boating at the Trust, said: "Little Venice is one of the jewels in London's crown – an area steeped in heritage and character. When a boater cruises into the pool they know they've arrived in the heart of the Capital's canals, while tourists come to hop on a trip boat or enjoy the view from the floating café, and locals come to feed the ducks and enjoy the calming atmosphere. This is an exciting opportunity for anyone wanting to set up a business in a really special place. We're looking for a proposal that is exciting, new and different while complementing the existing businesses and remaining sympathetic to the feel of the area. I can't wait to see what ideas people put forward."
Situated at the junction where the Grand Union Canal meets the Regent's Canal, Little Venice is just minutes from Paddington Station. The mooring is on the north side of the Little Venice pool, adjacent to Blomfield Road, between Jason's Trip and Jessie's B&B. It is 25 metres long and has mooring rings, a 100 amp electricity supply and a water point.
Initially the Trust will be seeking expressions of interest by February 2017 before entering in to a formal tender process in due course. More information, including a copy of the marketing particulars, can be found here: tendered opportunities
Any queries should be directed to [email protected]
