Assisted Shellfish Sampling Service Including Boat Hire

Maldon District Council are responsible for the implementation of EC Regulation 853/2004 and 854/2004, Article 3 (as regards the regulation of Live Bivalve Molluscs) in relation to the rivers Blackwater and Crouch. Its statutory responsibilities include the periodic sampling of shellfish and water from the shellfish beds within its jurisdiction.

In order to undertake this work the Council has a requirement for the use of a suitable boat with crew and equipment, together with the necessary assistance to facilitate the taking of samples by the Council’s sampling officer. The Contractor is expected to provide the service on Tuesdays and Wednesdays of each week in line with the availability of sampling officers and access to laboratories.

However, this will be dependent on weather conditions and other factors. Where necessary the service will be provided on alternative days of the week as agreed between the contractor and sampling officer or representative(s) of Maldon District Council. The date and time will be agreed by both parties prior to the sampling day This contract will be for a fixed price commencing on 1st April 2016 and extending for a period of 3 years, subject to certain conditions as specified, and may be extended for a further period or periods not exceeding a total of 3 years with the agreement of the contractor and the Council.