The Provision of Habitat Improvement Works

A multi supplier Framework to carry out habitat improvement works in suitable locations. Some of these will be part of legally binding Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) agreements, funded by third parties. BNG was set out in the Environment Act (2021) and is regulated through associated Statutory Instruments.

BNG requires developments to make appropriate onsite habitat improvements. However, in certain circumstances these works can be offset by a third party via appropriate habitat creation/enhancement works.

BNG requirements are generally very technical and bound by both legislation and legal agreements. The habitats are assessed under the UKHabitats classification system and their condition assessed in line with the national BNG guidance documents.

Areas of habitat for improvement must reach a given ecological condition, within an allotted timeframe, and to be maintained at this level of quality for a minimum of 30 years. Any Call-Off Contracts awarded as part of this Framework will deliver part of this 30 year commitment.

The Council is looking to provide habitat uplift projects which can be funded via offsite BNG agreements. Some aspects of these works may be undertaken in house by the Council, through other Council contracts, and via this Framework. These Services will be for varying lengths of time as indicated in the separate Lots.

The term of this Framework will be 8 years (although Call-Off Contracts let under the Framework may extend further than the Framework end date, particularly maintenance contracts which in some cases may be for up to 30 years).

The Procurement Act 2023 has introduced a new type of Framework called an Open Framework which can be reopened at set times during its operation to give new suppliers the opportunity to join. We intend to reopen the Framework after Year 1 (with the option to delay this to Year 3) and again after Year 5.

If you are awarded a place on the original Framework you will be asked if you want to remain on the Framework and if so whether you want to amend your bid when it is reopened or keep to your original bid. When the Framework is reopened new bids will be evaluated which may result in a different ranking for your organisation and may affect whether you remain on the framework and/or awarded work via direct award.