Invitation to Tender: Universal Impact & Opportunity Study

MyMiltonKeynes Business Improvement District (BID) is inviting proposals from suitably experienced consultants to undertake a Universal Impact & Opportunity Study focused on Milton Keynes city centre.

The recent approval of Universal Studios Bedford represents a transformative opportunity for the wider region. With Milton Keynes Central Station expected to act as an important transport gateway for visitors, the city centre is well placed to benefit from increased visitor activity, investment interest and business growth.

This commission will explore the specific impacts and opportunities for Milton Keynes city centre, providing an evidence base to support businesses, inform future planning, and strengthen the city centre’s investment proposition.

Scope of the Study

The study will consider, among other areas:

• Potential visitor flows and gateway activity linked to Universal

• Opportunities for city centre businesses, particularly within hospitality, leisure and the evening economy

• Implications for hotel demand and accommodation provision

• Factors influencing visitor dwell time and spend within the city centre

• High‑level workforce considerations relevant to city‑centre sectors

• The overall readiness of the city centre to capture opportunity and investment

The work will be commissioned by MyMiltonKeynes BID, in collaboration with Milton Keynes City Council, and will focus explicitly on city‑centre economic outcomes.

Outputs

The commission will include:

• A detailed technical report setting out analysis, methodology and findings

• A concise investor‑facing summary pack highlighting key opportunities

• Presentation of findings to the BID and relevant stakeholders

  
  

Budget

The anticipated budget for this commission is £50,000–£70,000, dependent on scope and methodology.

How to Respond

Full details, including the Request for Proposals (RFP), are available here:

RfP Universal Impact updated.pdf

Download PDF • 266KB

Proposals must be submitted electronically by: Friday 22nd May 2026, 5pm.