Valleys to Coast (V2C) is intending to let a framework for a new service to replace its existing Grounds Maintenance Contract. The existing contract is for cutting all Valleys to Coast owned grassed land; the grass is currently cut 13 times during the period of April to October.

The new contract will be offered in lots based on geographical location and contractor’s capacity. Interested parties may apply for one or more lots. Contracts let under the framework agreement may cover the whole area comprised within a Lot or a smaller area within a Lot. The work covered in this contract will include grass cutting, hedge trimming, resident’s garden schemes, the preparation and maintenance of flower beds to sheltered Accommodation schemes, and some tree consultancy and rectification works.

These are Part B services and Valleys to Coast will not be bound by the Public Contracts Regulations 2006 (as amended) (“the Regulations”) except as the Regulations are applicable to Part B services.

Valleys to Coast consider that this contract may be suitable for economic operators that are small or medium enterprises (SMEs). For the avoidance of doubt, Valleys to Coast points out that no weight will be attached to whether or not an economic operator is an SME in selecting economic operators to submit tenders, or in assessing the most economically advantageous tender.

Under this project the economic operator is requires to participate actively in the economic and social regeneration of the locality.

See III.1.4.