Market Engagement: New All Age School, Machynlleth, Mid Wales

Powys County Council (the “Council”) invites suitably experienced contractors to engage in early discussions relating to the design and construction of a new all age school in Machynlleth, Powys, Mid Wales. The proposed development will provide a modern, energy efficient facility within the existing school grounds, accommodating 540 pupils alongside childcare and early years provision.

The Council is preparing to commence a formal competitive procurement process for the delivery of the Ysgol Bro Hyddgen project. To help shape the procurement strategy and maintain early contractor involvement, the Council is exploring a range of procurement approaches aimed at achieving best value and meeting programme objectives.

Purpose of the Invitation

The Council seeks to engage with contractors who have demonstrable experience in similar design and build construction projects. These discussions will support the refinement of project delivery strategy ahead of the formal tender process. Interested contractors are invited to contact the Council to register interest to participate in a short, individual discussion meeting.

Project Background

Ysgol Bro Hyddgen currently operates across two separate sites within Machynlleth, with the condition of existing buildings driving the need for a consolidated, fit for purpose, all age facility. A previous design has been progressed to RIBA Stage 4 and has gained full planning permission. The building is to achieve BREEAM ‘Excellent’, Net Zero Carbon in operation and less than 600kg/m² CO₂e embodied carbon.

How to Express Interest

Contractors wishing to participate in this preliminary market engagement are invited to contact the Council using the email address provided in the Contracting Authority section of the notice. Responses should be submitted by 12:00 on Friday 27 March 2026.

Subject to capacity, the Council will host one-hour individual meetings with responding contractors. Where interest exceeds capacity, meeting slots may be prioritised based on the contractor’s experience relevant to the nature and scale of the project.

Participation is voluntary and will not influence or disadvantage involvement in any subsequent procurement process. All engagement will be undertaken in accordance with principles of transparency, equal treatment, and non-discrimination under the Procurement Act 2023.