Framework for Site Investigation and Materials Testing Services

Dorset Council went out to tender for site investigation and materials testing services in the delivery of construction/maintenance projects. The requirements included; • Field and laboratory testing of civil engineering materials (including but not limited to; bituminous materials, aggregates, concrete), geotechnical site investigation and soils testing which will require factual and interpretative reporting. • Geo-environmental site investigation and testing which will require factual reporting, interpretative reporting and risk assessment. • Investigation of existing highways and structures (including but not limited to core sampling of carriageways and structures). • Provision of specialist advice and representation (on materials, pavement design and geotechnical/geo-environmental matters) The requirements are primarily for Dorset Highways however other areas of the Council share the requirements.

The Council sought to establish a multi-supplier Framework agreement for provision of the services. The Framework will also be accessible to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council, who are named in the Tender Notice.

A maximum of 4 suppliers have been awarded on to the Framework Agreement. During the term of the Framework, call-off orders will be placed by means of direct award or further competition. The advertised value of the Framework is estimated is based upon the Councils’ estimated needs over the full Framework term however this may change due to changing needs and circumstances during the Framework term: This may include expansion of the scope, budget, or duration if additional services are needed or may include reduction of the scope, budget, or duration if circumstances change, such as reduced funding, lower-than-expected demand, or strategic shifts.