Sutton Tramlink Communications Strategy

Opportunity Sutton is Sutton Council's economic growth programme. In 2013 Opportunity Sutton commissioned a study to quantify the benefits of extending Tramlink to Sutton Town Centre.

According to the study the project could lead to 12,000 jobs, unlock development sites, improve access and reduce road congestions whilst improving air quality. A Tramlink extension would therefore act as a powerful catalyst for the long term growth of business, whilst improving links to central and west London.

The Council is tendering this quotation through the London Tenders e-tendering portal, our preferred method of advertising and managing contract opportunities. Prospective Tenderers are advised to register their interest by going to https://www.londontenders.org/procontract/supplier.nsf The Council shall not be bound to accept the lowest cost or any quotation.

The award of contract shall be based on the most economically advantageous quotation submitted. Sutton and Merton declared a public commitment to Tramlink in 2014.

Progress includes: - In 2014 TfL undertook a feasibility study into extending the service to Sutton town centre which found that an extension is highly deliverable. - Opportunity Sutton commissioned a study to quantify the potential contribution. - Sutton and Merton jointly commissioned consultation specialists to carry out a public consultation which received over 10,000 responses with 84% supporting and strongly supporting the proposals. - A reference in the 2015 TfL Business Plan stated a Tramlink extension could be progressed towards the end of the plan, subject to a viable economic and business case. To progress this work, Opportunity Sutton are looking for a consultant to develop a strategic public affairs strategy and implementation plan which will inform leading decision makers of the benefits of extending Tramlink to Sutton town centre via Morden and onwards to a new Life Sciences Cluster in Belmont.

Opportunity Sutton would like to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced organisation who will deliver: - A detailed stakeholder map and accompanying report with background on each stakeholder. - A concise strategy outlining key components of the campaign approach and how outputs will be measured throughout the contract. The strategy should build on and use existing political contacts by key individuals within Sutton and Merton councils. - A paper setting out the various options to deliver the engagement strategy. - Training for elected members and senior council officers in networking, engaging and influencing key decision makers.

The successful organisation will have experience of working in a political environment on major transport and infrastructure projects. They will h..(view full details to see more)