The ambitious plan to revitalise Chandigarh's iconic Rose Club in Sector 16 has taken a significant step forward. The Municipal Corporation's engineering department has completed its scrutiny, and two agencies have now cleared the crucial financial evaluation for the project. The venture, which will operate on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for a decade, now awaits the final decision from a specially formed committee.
Next Steps: Committee to Review and Decide
The financial details submitted by the two eligible agencies have been vetted by the MC's engineering wing. The process will now move to the next phase, where a panel comprising senior engineering officers and municipal councillors will conduct a thorough review. The committee's mandate is to examine the financial records of both contenders before awarding the contract. Officials have indicated that the panel meeting will be convened shortly to ensure the work is allotted in strict adherence to the laid-down terms and conditions.
This move to a PPP framework is driven by practical constraints. Sources within the MC revealed that the civic body lacks both the substantial funds and the specialised expertise required to renovate and manage the club facility. The partnership model presents a solution where the private concessionaire invests in the upgrade and operation, while the MC earns revenue without bearing the financial burden.
Vision for the Revamped Rose Club
The project envisions a complete transformation of the Rose Club, aiming to make it a fully functional and vibrant social hub. The selected private agency will be responsible for bearing all expenditure related to the building's interior and any permitted external structures. In return, the concessionaire will offer a range of modern amenities designed to attract patrons while preserving the site's character.
The proposed services and facilities include:
- A restaurant and café
- Gaming zones and a library
- A gymnasium and dedicated event spaces
A key condition of the contract is the maintenance of the premises' cultural integrity. No permanent construction will be allowed without prior approval; only temporary installations will receive permission. This ensures the architectural and cultural essence of the club is protected.
Terms, Revenue, and Mandatory Offerings
The selection of the final agency will be based on a clear criterion: the highest proposed Annual Concession Fee. The operator will have specific obligations, including providing mandatory services like club memberships, facilities for both indoor and outdoor games, and hosting social events. Notably, weddings will be excluded from the list of permitted events.
The concessionaire's revenue will be generated through multiple streams, primarily from hosting events, food and beverage services, and membership fees. This model is designed to ensure the club's long-term sustainability and upgrade, turning it into a modern recreational asset for Chandigarh's residents without draining municipal resources.
