The Mpumalanga Department of Public Works, Roads and Transport invites proposals for the lease and operation of nine businesses in the historic town of Pilgrim’s Rest. This unique opportunity, under bid number PWRT/2606/26/MP, offers a long-term lease of nine years and eleven months for entrepreneurs to run businesses within a nationally protected heritage site, contributing to the economic revival of a town rich in history.

Key Details and Submission Deadline

The bid is open for submissions until 05 August 2026 at 12:00. Bids must be deposited in the tender box at any of the designated regional offices in Mpumalanga. A compulsory briefing session will be held at the Pilgrims Rest Town Hall (Down Town) on 17 July 2026 at 11:00; attendance is mandatory for consideration.

A Unique Heritage Opportunity

Pilgrim’s Rest, a provincial heritage site and a UNESCO World Heritage Tentative site, holds immense historical value as South Africa’s second gold field . Bidders are expected to operate businesses in a way that preserves and enhances its heritage character . The nine businesses are located in historic buildings in Pilgrim’s Rest Uptown and Downtown.

Scope of Work

Bidders must submit detailed business proposals demonstrating their capacity and expertise . Proposals must be structured as a formal business plan covering key areas such as:

  • Purpose, objectives, and employment plan
  • Financial standing, management structure, and marketing plan
  • Contribution to heritage status and community development

A detailed rental offer, including escalation rates, must be provided for each of the nine premises (Africa Silk, Bakery, Jubilee Porters, Mrs Mac’s Shop, Spotted Dog, TGME Golf Club, The Bank House, The Daisy, and Scott’s House).

Evaluation and Functionality

Bids will be evaluated through a phased process. First, functionality is scored, with a minimum threshold of 60 points required to proceed. Key assessment areas include:

  • Methodology: Quality of the business plan and proposed approach.
  • Experience: Number of years in a relevant business.
  • Locality: Business location, with preference for those in Bohlabela or Mpumalanga.
  • Financial Standing: Bank statements and a bank credit rating.

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Mandatory Documents

To be considered responsive, bidders must submit the following documents (original or certified copies) at closing:

  • SBD 1, SBD 4, SBD 6.1, and SBD 6.2: Duly completed and signed
  • Annexure C: Fully completed
  • SARS Tax Compliance PIN: Original pin issued by SARS
  • CIPC Registration Certificate: Copy of business registration
  • Certified ID Copies: Of all directors, partners, or shareholders (not older than 3 months)
  • CSD Registration: Proof of registration on the Central Supplier Database
  • VAT Registration Certificate: If the bidder is a registered VAT vendor
  • Approval for Public Officials: Bidders with government officials as directors/shareholders must provide written approval from their executing authorities

Failure to submit any of these mandatory requirements will invalidate the bid.

The price of the rental offer (80 points) and specific goals (20 points) are then evaluated. Specific goals aim to promote enterprises owned by designated groups.

Tender Documents


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