AP2418 - Asbestos Analyst Consultancy Framework

SCAPE, on behalf of Arc Partnership (the Client) was seeking tenders from suitably experienced asbestos consultants/analysts to provide asbestos analysis services. As a result of this procurement, 3 asbestos consultants/analysts were appointed to deliver asbestos analysis services across Nottinghamshire and other properties owned by Arc's clients in Lincolnshire, South Yorkshire, Leicestershire and Derbyshire under a framework agreement with the Arc Partnership.

The framework utilises a Mini-competition framework procedure where the three providers provide quotes on a project by project basis to supply Asbestos Analyst Consultancy. The framework also allows for Direct Award when necessary.

The framework duration is 2 years with two optional extension years (2 + 1 + 1). The NEC4 Framework Contract is used to manage the Client and Supplier relationship.

The Contract covers all elements of the Client's business. The contract consists of one Lot.

Provision of Asbestos Analysis Consultancy Services. Estimated value based on framework duration of four (4) years.

This comprises of 2 years plus optional extension years of 1 + 1 years I.E. (2) + (1) + (1) years.

The actual amount of work issued via the Framework cannot be guaranteed and will vary depending on requirements as they arise. This framework utilises a mini-competition or direct award to allocate projects.

The model works on framework pre-tendered net labour, materials and sub-contractor costs, with overheads and profit and any design (only where required), being priced separately. 3 suppliers were awarded to provide all the required services at the conclusion of the procurement process. The suppliers are expected to work for and cooperate with public sector clients, in-house and external consultants, contractors and other partner providers.

All contract performance is monitored using a set of comprehensive performance indicators. Services shall be delivered by the consultant and their supply chain.

All services shall be performed in accordance with the framework agreement. The procurement was conducted in 2 stages: Stage 1 - Selection Stage - This was a set of questions and criteria that must have been passed in order to move on to Stage 2 of the procurement.

The questions were marked by a panel and the top 9 scoring Bidders progressed to Stage 2. The criteria and questions were based on the Bidders history and what they were currently doing.

Stage 2 - Award Stage - This was a set questions that Bidder needed to answer based on what the Bidder will do or how they will approach works if they get onto the Framework. Bidders were also evaluated on their submitted prices and scores were added to achieve a price/quality score.

The top scoring 3 Bidders were invited to enter the Framework. Full details of the process can be found withing tender documents, however, this will be a stage 2, restricted process as identified within regulation 28 of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015.

The minimum insurance requirements were: £5,000,000.00 Employer's Liability Insurance, £5,000,000.00 Public Liability Insurance and £10,000,000 Professional Indemnity Insurance. Additional information: Prices are set for the first 2 years of the Framework with prices for the following years linked to CPI.