Consultant Opportunity: South Somerset Heritage Collections Project
Options appraisal and feasibility study for a sustainable museum and collections store
Closing date: 2 November 2026
Yeovil Town Council, in partnership with South West Heritage Trust, invites tenders from experienced heritage consultants and multidisciplinary teams to help shape the future of the South Somerset Heritage Collection.
The collection comprises approximately 30,000 objects and 6,000 photographs spanning archaeology, social history and industry. With its current storage arrangements due to end, this commission will identify a sustainable, ambitious and accessible future for the collection and explore the potential for a museum in Yeovil.
The commission
The successful consultant or team will be appointed to undertake a two-phase commission. A break clause will apply at the end of Phase One, and progression to Phase Two will be subject to approval by Yeovil Town Council.
- Phase One – Options Appraisal (RIBA Stage 0): develop the strategic vision, project brief and business case; assess museum and collection-store options; review collections and storage requirements; identify audiences and engagement needs; undertake stakeholder consultation; and provide capital and revenue modelling, cost estimates, governance and risk analysis, clear recommendations and a funder-ready final report.
- Phase Two – Feasibility (RIBA Stage 1): develop the preferred option through site analysis, planning and conservation advice, business planning, concept design, cost and programme development, interpretation and audience engagement strategy, consultation, market analysis, risk assessment and a feasibility report.
Who we are looking for
We welcome applications from consultants or teams with a strong track record in:
- Museum and cultural heritage options appraisals and feasibility studies
- Successful National Lottery Heritage Fund capital projects
- Museum and collections storage planning
- Capital cost planning, financial modelling, governance and risk management
- Stakeholder engagement and consultation
Fees and timetable
- Phase One: £20,000–£25,000, including expenses, plus VAT if applicable
- Phase Two: £50,000–£70,000, including expenses, plus VAT if applicable
- Programme: appointment in November 2026, with the Phase One final report due by 1 March 2027
How to apply
Submit a tender response of no more than 30 sides of A4, setting out:
- Relevant experience and case studies
- Proposed methodology and programme
- Team structure and short biographies
- Details of any sub-consultants
- A detailed fee proposal for both phases
Send your tender by email to recruitment@swheritage.org.uk by 9am on 2 November 2026.
For questions about the process or brief, contact Estelle.gilbert@swheritage.org.uk. Please refer to the full consultancy brief and briefing document for the detailed scope, deliverables, timetable and selection criteria.