For many organisations, temporary space only becomes a priority when pressure hits.

A growing school suddenly needs extra exam capacity.

A construction project overruns.

A venue realises it’s turning away bookings.

A refurbishment disrupts day-to-day operations.

By that stage, timelines are tight, and decisions are reactive. Planning ahead, particularly when considering long-term marquee hire, gives you more control, more flexibility and ultimately a better outcome.

Here’s what to think about early in the year.

1. Start with capacity forecasting (Q1 is ideal)

The most effective temporary space projects begin with a simple question:

When will we run out of room?

Across sectors, pressure points are often predictable:

• Schools preparing for exam season or September intake
• Hospitality venues forecasting peak summer or Christmas trade
• Construction firms planning phased developments
• Businesses scheduling refurbishment or expansion

If you can identify likely pinch points six to twelve months ahead, you’ll have more options in terms of size, specification and installation timing.

Early forecasting also helps you determine whether you need short-term cover or a longer deployment. In many cases, what begins as a temporary fix evolves into a structured long-term solution, which is where long-term marquee hire becomes particularly valuable.

2. Align with budget and approval cycles

Temporary space doesn’t always sit neatly in one budget line. It may fall under:

• Capital expenditure
• Operational costs
• Project budgets
• Maintenance or contingency funds

Starting conversations early allows time to gather accurate quotations, refine specifications and secure internal sign-off before deadlines loom.

Specification decisions such as insulation, flooring, heating, lighting, accessibility and branding all influence cost. Early engagement means those decisions are informed rather than rushed.

3. Assess the site early

One of the most common causes of delay isn’t the structure itself, it’s the site.

Before committing to any installation, consider:

• Ground conditions (grass, car park, uneven surfaces). Remember a marquee can be set up on any surface.
• Access for delivery vehicles and lifting equipment
• Power supply
• Proximity to existing buildings
• Duration of installation
• Any planning or compliance requirements

A simple early site discussion can prevent last-minute complications and ensure the structure is designed to suit the space properly.

4. Understand seasonal lead times

While temporary structures can be installed quickly when required, certain periods of the year are busier than others.

For example:

Education

• Exam season (May–June) – planning ideally begins in autumn or winter
• New academic year – spring planning provides greater flexibility

Hospitality & events

• Summer trading peaks – winter booking secures availability
• Christmas capacity – late summer planning is advisable

Construction

• Winter weather protection – best planned in late summer or early autumn

Early booking secures your dates and also allows for better coordination with utilities, internal works and operational schedules.

5. Think beyond “a marquee”

Not all temporary space is created equal.

Modern structures used for long-term marquee hire can be insulated, heated, fully floored and finished to a high standard. They can function as classrooms, dining halls, welfare units, studios, event spaces or operational work areas.

When planning ahead, consider:

• How will the space be used daily?
• What level of insulation is required?
• Do you need solid walling or enhanced thermal performance?
• What lighting levels are appropriate?
• Is accessibility a requirement?
• How long will the structure remain in place?

The earlier these questions are addressed, the more tailored and cost-effective the solution becomes.

6. Factor in risk and business continuity

Temporary space is often about resilience.

Forward planning helps organisations:

• Avoid lost revenue
• Maintain operational continuity
• Protect staff and visitor comfort
• Stay compliant
• Manage unexpected building issues

For schools dealing with structural challenges, businesses undergoing refurbishment, or construction sites exposed to seasonal disruption, early preparation reduces operational risk significantly.

7. A simple planning timeline

If you’re reviewing the year ahead, this framework can help:

6–12 months ahead

• Forecast need
• Allocate provisional budget
• Begin initial site discussions

3–6 months ahead

• Confirm specification
• Conduct site survey
• Secure installation dates

1–2 months ahead

• Finalise utilities
• Coordinate logistics
• Confirm access arrangements

Plan early, stay flexible

Temporary space works best when it’s proactive rather than reactive.

An early conversation doesn’t commit you to a project. It simply creates options and ensures that if additional space becomes necessary, you’re ready.

If you’re mapping out your year and anticipate needing extra capacity, whether for a season or through long-term marquee hire, starting the discussion now will give you the greatest flexibility when it matters most.

Get in touch with us to start the conversation.