Design and Installation of a 9-Hole Crazy Golf Course
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
Don't underestimate the word "crazy"
At first glance, you might think this tender is all about the mechanics of building a golf course.
But there's a bigger picture here.
Langar cum Barnstone Parish Council isn't just looking for a company to lay down some turf and obstacles.
They're looking for creativity.
For a course that's engaging, fun and memorable for a wide range of ages and abilities.
The contract involves designing, preparing the ground, supplying and installing the course, including robust, low-maintenance materials.
Think about the families visiting
Families, friends and community groups will be the users.
They'll want a course that's welcoming, easily navigable and offers a variety of challenges.
If I were evaluating this bid, I'd look for designs that account for all ages and abilities, with clear pathways and spaces for spectators.
The course is for public use in an unsupervised location, so safety and accessibility are paramount.
Remember, low-maintenance is key
The Parish Council is clear about one thing.
They want a course that's easy to look after.
That means using materials that are durable, vandal-resistant and require minimal upkeep.
The materials you choose will speak volumes about your understanding of the Council's needs.
Pay attention to what they say
The notice emphasises the need for a "vandal-resistant" design.
This is crucial.
It tells me the Council is worried about the course's durability and long-term appearance.
I'd ensure my submission explains how my design choices address this concern.
Evidence always beats promises
Every bidder can claim they understand the requirements.
Few will prove it.
Showcase your experience with similar projects.
- Photos of past work
- Testimonials from previous clients
- Details of how your designs have stood the test of time
If you have a strong track record, let it shine.
Ground preparation and drainage matter
Don't overlook the practical aspects.
Ground preparation and drainage are essential for the course's longevity and usability.
Explain your approach to handling these elements.
How will you ensure effective drainage?
What steps will you take to prepare the ground properly?
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
It's easy to get caught up in the design and forget the end-users.
But remember, this course is for everyone in the community.
If I were writing this tender, I'd ask myself, "Will this course be enjoyable and safe for everyone who visits?"
That's the question I'd use to test every design decision.
Consistency over the contract term
The project doesn't end at handover.
The Council will expect consistent standards throughout the installation.
Your response should cover how you plan to maintain quality control and manage any unexpected challenges during the build.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Ignore the emphasis on low-maintenance materials
- Fail to demonstrate past experience with similar projects
- Overlook the importance of ground preparation and drainage
- Neglect safety and accessibility in design
- Use designs that aren't suitable for a wide range of ages
- Lack evidence of vandal-resistant designs
My Final Thoughts
Langar cum Barnstone Parish Council is looking for more than just a contractor.
They want a partner who understands their vision and can bring it to life with creativity and durability.
With a project value of £60,000, it's clear they expect quality over cost-cutting.
The focus on low-maintenance and vandal-resistant materials means your written submission should emphasise how your design choices and materials meet these needs.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
Ready to decide whether this contract is worth bidding?
View the opportunity on Bid Trawler and access everything you need to make an informed decision, including the full tender information, direct access to the tender documents, the current supplier, who's winning similar contracts, who else may be bidding, buyer intelligence, our exclusive Inside View, your personalised Winnability Score and an AI-powered contract review.
View the Full Contract & Exclusive Inside View on Bid Trawler →About our "How to Win This Contract" guides
Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.