The First Ark Group consists of 5 companies that work together with the over-riding purpose of making a real positive difference to our communities and to people's lives. First Ark sought bids from appropriately skilled and experienced contractors to provide asbestos surveying and testing services across multiple First Ark sites in the North West, primarily Knowsley. Services initially required under the framework are expected to include the provision of sampling and testing for asbestos across a variety of property types in the North West and surrounding areas as appropriate to meet the operational needs of the Group (both present and future). Surveys will be in accordance with HSG264 guidance with the additional requirement that all textured coatings are sampled and tested irrespective of pattern. The outcome of the tender process is a 4 year framework agreement.

Services initially required under the framework are expected to include the provision of surveying and testing for asbestos. This procurement exercise was led by the First Ark Group for itself and on behalf of the other members of the First Ark Group. The framework will also be available to other contracting authorities including Registered Providers of Social Housing within England and Wales (as defined by the Housing and Regeneration Act 2008), Registered Social Landlords within Scotland (as defined by the Housing (Scotland) Act 2010) and local authorities across the UK).