The First Ark Group consists of 7 companies that work together with the over-riding purpose of making a real positive difference to our communities and to people’s lives. This procurement exercise is being led by Knowsley Housing Trust (KHT) for itself and on behalf of the other members of the First Ark Group and references in this document to KHT/First Ark /the Group should be construed accordingly. KHT is seeking bids from appropriately skilled and experienced contractors to provide asbestos removals services across North West, England. The service will be required primarily in the borough of Knowsley; however services may be required throughout North West England and surrounding areas as appropriate to meet the operational needs of the business. Please see the tender documents for further information on the required services.

The framework will be available to the following, such that each of the following will be entitled to purchase services from the successful contractors at the discretion of First Ark Group:

— First Ark Group and all subsidiary undertakings of First Ark both current and future,

— all parts of any current or future group structure of which First Ark is, or may become, a part,

— any joint venture entities (whether companies, limited liability partnerships or otherwise) in which any member of the First Ark participates from time to time (whether as a shareholder, member or otherwise), and are permitted by First Ark to make particular purchases from the service provider from time to time.