Science Capability in Animal Health (SCAH) Capital Programme Pre-Procurement Market Engagement

This Early Engagement Notice initiates pre-procurement market engagement with the supply chain, and, together with the information provided in the survey site, its aims are to: - Provide an update on development of the SCAH Programme; - Set the context for the SCAH Capital Programme ("SCP"), within the overarching SCAH Programme and ongoing operations of the Weybridge science estate; - Provide the range of opportunities presented by the SCP (as further described below); and - Set out next steps for interested suppliers to complete the pre-procurement market engagement survey and register for further updates.

Interested suppliers are advised to read this notice and expanded back ground information provided in the survey site, available for 4 weeks from publication of the PIN, with links to both below.

Background information: Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA): https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/animal-and-plant-health-agency.

Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra): https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-environment-food-rural-affairs Together, Defra and APHA are developing the client capabilities required to deliver the SCAH Programme, through an Intelligent Client Function.

APHA is based at the Weybridge science estate, and provides the UK's primary capability for managing the extensive and continuously evolving threats posed by the spread of high-risk diseases carried by animals.

In March 2020 the Government committed to transform the animal science facility at Weybridge.

The programme is aimed at safeguarding and enhancing the Weybridge science estate, providing additional world class, state of the art laboratory space and high level ACDP biocontainment facilities.

The SCAH Programme comprises the SCAH Transformation Programme and the SCAH Capital Programme.

The SCAH Transformation Programme covers the development of new scientific, digital and facilities management operating models, to be delivered through Defra/APHA alongside the SCP.

This notice relates specifically to the SCP.

Preparation and phasing of the SCP: Preparatory activities are under way, with early demolition works commencing in October 2021.

The SCAH Programme is now in preparation and planning stages.

Key aspirations for the SCP: There is the opportunity to contribute to the transformation of the UK Construction Industry.

Defra is aligned to UK Government policies and strategies (e.g.

Construction Playbook), in delivering its 25 year environmental plan.

Defra is seeking to deliver a lasting legacy through social value benefits (e.g. employment, skills and sustainability).

The SCAH Programme is committed to providing opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) both locally and across the United Kingdom, either through contracting directly with Defra or indirectly with a Tier 1 services or works supplier to the SCAH Programme.

Further information on key aspirations can be found in the survey site.