Notice Information
Notice Title
Provision of Transport Services - Knowsley, Rochdale, St. Helens, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford Council
Notice Description
The Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the "Services"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply.
Lot Information
Knowsley Council
The Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the "Services"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply. * Passenger assistants - The Supplier will provide a PA where required. * To transport other types of passengers (outside of school run hours): o Elderly people o Council employees 2 Breakdown of Requirements 1. SEND Children's Home to School Transport including Post 16 transport * Bluebell Park & East Croft Primary, Kirkby - Approx 185 Service users * Alt Bridge Huyton - Approx 240 Service users * Knowsley Central Huyton - Approx 90 Service users * Meadow Park Stockbridge Village and Northwood Kirkby - Approx 50 Service users * Yewtree and Finch Woods Halewood - Approx 90 Service users * Out of Borough - Approx 300 Service users * Post 16 (Higher Education and College Transport) - Approx 70 Service users 2. Children's Social Care Transport, Ad Hoc Adult Social Care Transport (Inside and Out of Borough) and Ad Hoc Transport for Council Employees and Members 3. Adults' Home to Day Centre Care and respite Transport 4. Adults' Transport - Day trips and excursions (Inside and Out of Borough) Quantities and measures in this contract cannot be guaranteed
Rochdale CouncilThe Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the "Services"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply. Passenger assistants - Passenger assistants are provided by Rochdale Council unless Rochdale Council requests the Operator to provide a passenger assistant. To transport other types of passengers (outside of school run hours): 2 Indicative locations and volumes Rochdale Borough Council has 4 special schools, 4 mainstream schools with specialist (resourced) provision places, 4 HUBS but also places children and young people in schools within other local authorities if appropriate. At the start of the Academic year 2025 the Council had 300 routes operating and 825 children and young people utilising SEND Transport. It is predicted that the number of routes will increase in 2026-2027 as more children and young people require specialist educational settings.
St Helens CouncilThe Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the "Services"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply. Passenger assistants - The Supplier will provide a PA where required. To transport other types of passengers (outside of school run hours): Elderly people Breakdown of Requirements St Helens Council provides transport daily to approximately 800 children and young people, this number is subject to change. The Council has 3 special schools and several resource bases in mainstream schools. St Helens Council also have young people who attend their educational setting in a different local authority. The Service Provider shall deliver flexible and safe transport for eligible children and young people aged 4-25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The service must include transport for post-16 learners and for pupils placed both within and outside the St Helens area. The Provider may also be required to deliver ad-hoc transport for elderly or vulnerable adults where commissioned by the St Helens Council.
Stockport CouncilThe Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the "Services"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply. Passenger assistants - The Supplier will provide a PA where required. To transport other types of passengers (outside of school run hours) to overnight short break stays this can include evening and weekend during term time and school holidays * Young adults (19-25) to education provisions * The suppliers should contact families, via phone call initially, prior to transport commencing to introduce themselves, and discuss the transport requirements for the passenger. An introductory visit should then arranged with them, if they feel that this is necessary before any route begins.
Tameside CouncilThe Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the "Services"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply. Scope * Passenger assistants - The Supplier will provide a PA where required. * To transport other types of passengers (outside of school run hours): Elderly people children and young people (aged 3 - 25 years of age) with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and Vulnerable adults to access an educational setting, respite care or day care. (Vulnerable Adults only applicable to Tameside Council)
Trafford CouncilThe Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the "Services"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply. Scope * Passenger assistants - The Supplier will provide a PA where required. * To transport other types of passengers (outside of school run hours): * including vulnerable adults. * (Vulnerable Adults only applicable to Trafford Council)
Planning Information
A request for information is currently live on https://procontract.due-north.com under reference DN779333. Following this stage it is envisaged market engagement events will take place however further detail will be provided once this initial stage has been completed
Notice Details
Publication & Lifecycle
- Open Contracting ID
- ocds-h6vhtk-05156d
- Publication Source
- Find A Tender Service
- Latest Notice
- https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/080236-2025
- Current Stage
- Tender
- All Stages
- Planning, Tender
Procurement Classification
- Notice Type
- UK4 - Tender Notice
- Procurement Type
- Framework
- Procurement Category
- Services
- Procurement Method
- Open
- Procurement Method Details
- Competitive flexible procedure
- Tender Suitability
- SME, VCSE
- Awardee Scale
- Not specified
Common Procurement Vocabulary (CPV)
- CPV Divisions
60 - Transport services (excl. Waste transport)
80 - Education and training services
-
- CPV Codes
60120000 - Taxi services
80340000 - Special education services
Notice Value(s)
- Tender Value
- £446,000,000 £100M-£1B
- Lots Value
- £446,000,000 £100M-£1B
- Awards Value
- Not specified
- Contracts Value
- Not specified
Notice Dates
- Publication Date
- 5 Dec 20252 days ago
- Submission Deadline
- 19 Jan 20262 months to go
- Future Notice Date
- 1 Sep 2025Expired
- Award Date
- Not specified
- Contract Period
- 31 Mar 2026 - 31 Mar 2034 Over 5 years
- Recurrence
- Not specified
Notice Status
- Tender Status
- Active
- Lots Status
- Active
- Awards Status
- Not Specified
- Contracts Status
- Not Specified
Buyer & Supplier
Contracting Authority (Buyer)
- Main Buyer
- KNOWSLEY COUNCIL
- Additional Buyers
STOCKPORT METROPOLITAN BOROUGH COUNCIL
- Contact Name
- Sarah Keating
- Contact Email
- procurement@star-procurement.gov.uk
- Contact Phone
- Not specified
Buyer Location
- Locality
- MANCHESTER
- Postcode
- M32 0TH
- Post Town
- Manchester
- Country
- England
-
- Major Region (ITL 1)
- TLD North West (England)
- Basic Region (ITL 2)
- TLD7 Merseyside
- Small Region (ITL 3)
- TLD71 East Merseyside
- Delivery Location
- TLC North East (England), TLD North West (England), TLE Yorkshire and The Humber, TLF East Midlands (England), TLG West Midlands (England), TLH East (England), TLI London, TLJ South East (England), TLK South West (England)
-
- Local Authority
- St. Helens
- Electoral Ward
- St Helens Town Centre
- Westminster Constituency
- St Helens South and Whiston
Further Information
Notice Documents
-
https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/080236-2025
5th December 2025 - Tender notice on Find a Tender -
https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/034319-2025
23rd June 2025 - Preliminary market engagement notice on Find a Tender -
https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/022075-2025
16th May 2025 - Pipeline notice on Find a Tender
Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS)
View full OCDS Record for this contracting process
The Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS) is a framework designed to increase transparency and access to public procurement data in the public sector. It is widely used by governments and organisations worldwide to report on procurement processes and contracts.
{
"tag": [
"compiled"
],
"id": "ocds-h6vhtk-05156d-2025-12-05T14:39:27Z",
"date": "2025-12-05T14:39:27Z",
"ocid": "ocds-h6vhtk-05156d",
"initiationType": "tender",
"planning": {
"documents": [
{
"id": "022075-2025",
"documentType": "plannedProcurementNotice",
"noticeType": "UK1",
"description": "Pipeline notice on Find a Tender",
"url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/022075-2025",
"datePublished": "2025-05-16T10:21:51+01:00",
"format": "text/html"
},
{
"id": "034319-2025",
"documentType": "marketEngagementNotice",
"noticeType": "UK2",
"description": "Preliminary market engagement notice on Find a Tender",
"url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/034319-2025",
"datePublished": "2025-06-23T11:25:36+01:00",
"format": "text/html"
}
],
"milestones": [
{
"id": "engagement",
"type": "engagement",
"description": "A request for information is currently live on https://procontract.due-north.com under reference DN779333. Following this stage it is envisaged market engagement events will take place however further detail will be provided once this initial stage has been completed",
"dueDate": "2025-09-30T23:59:59+01:00",
"status": "scheduled"
}
]
},
"parties": [
{
"id": "GB-PPON-PGZW-1429-QQZQ",
"name": "Trafford Council",
"identifier": {
"scheme": "GB-PPON",
"id": "PGZW-1429-QQZQ"
},
"address": {
"streetAddress": "Trafford Town Hall, Talbot Road",
"locality": "Manchester",
"postalCode": "M32 0TH",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom",
"region": "UKD34"
},
"contactPoint": {
"name": "Sarah Keating",
"email": "procurement@star-procurement.gov.uk"
},
"roles": [
"buyer"
],
"details": {
"classifications": [
{
"id": "publicAuthoritySubCentralGovernment",
"scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
"description": "Public authority - sub-central government"
}
]
}
},
{
"id": "GB-PPON-PZGW-7196-LCHL",
"name": "Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council",
"identifier": {
"scheme": "GB-PPON",
"id": "PZGW-7196-LCHL"
},
"address": {
"streetAddress": "Stopford House, Piccadilly",
"locality": "Stockport",
"postalCode": "SK1 3XE",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom",
"region": "UKD35"
},
"contactPoint": {
"name": "Sarah Keating",
"email": "procurement@star-procurement.gov.uk"
},
"roles": [
"buyer"
],
"details": {
"classifications": [
{
"id": "publicAuthoritySubCentralGovernment",
"scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
"description": "Public authority - sub-central government"
}
]
}
},
{
"id": "GB-PPON-PVWB-2493-LWTQ",
"name": "Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council",
"identifier": {
"scheme": "GB-PPON",
"id": "PVWB-2493-LWTQ"
},
"address": {
"streetAddress": "Tameside One",
"locality": "Ashton under Lyne",
"postalCode": "OL6 0GS",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom",
"region": "UKD35"
},
"contactPoint": {
"name": "Sarah Keating",
"email": "procurement@star-procurement.gov.uk"
},
"roles": [
"buyer"
],
"details": {
"classifications": [
{
"id": "publicAuthoritySubCentralGovernment",
"scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
"description": "Public authority - sub-central government"
}
]
}
},
{
"id": "GB-PPON-PXXD-6682-MDRX",
"name": "Rochdale Borough Council",
"identifier": {
"scheme": "GB-PPON",
"id": "PXXD-6682-MDRX"
},
"address": {
"streetAddress": "Number One Riverside",
"locality": "Rochdale",
"postalCode": "OL16 1XU",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom",
"region": "UKD37"
},
"contactPoint": {
"name": "Sarah Keating",
"email": "procurement@star-procurement.gov.uk"
},
"roles": [
"buyer"
],
"details": {
"classifications": [
{
"id": "publicAuthoritySubCentralGovernment",
"scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
"description": "Public authority - sub-central government"
}
]
}
},
{
"id": "GB-PPON-PXQQ-8436-NWPV",
"name": "Knowsley Council",
"identifier": {
"scheme": "GB-PPON",
"id": "PXQQ-8436-NWPV"
},
"address": {
"streetAddress": "Municipal Building, Archway Road",
"locality": "Huyton",
"postalCode": "L36 9YU",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom",
"region": "UKD71"
},
"contactPoint": {
"name": "Sarah Keating",
"email": "procurement@star-procurement.gov.uk"
},
"roles": [
"buyer"
],
"details": {
"classifications": [
{
"id": "publicAuthoritySubCentralGovernment",
"scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
"description": "Public authority - sub-central government"
}
]
}
},
{
"id": "GB-PPON-PPYM-6238-VHLR",
"name": "St Helens Council",
"identifier": {
"scheme": "GB-PPON",
"id": "PPYM-6238-VHLR"
},
"address": {
"streetAddress": "Town Hall",
"locality": "St Helens",
"postalCode": "WA10 1HP",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom",
"region": "UKD71"
},
"contactPoint": {
"name": "Sarah Keating",
"email": "procurement@star-procurement.gov.uk"
},
"roles": [
"buyer"
],
"details": {
"classifications": [
{
"id": "publicAuthoritySubCentralGovernment",
"scheme": "UK_CA_TYPE",
"description": "Public authority - sub-central government"
}
]
}
}
],
"buyer": {
"id": "GB-PPON-PXQQ-8436-NWPV",
"name": "Knowsley Council"
},
"tender": {
"id": "ocds-h6vhtk-05156d",
"legalBasis": {
"id": "2023/54",
"scheme": "UKPGA",
"uri": "https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/contents"
},
"title": "Provision of Transport Services - Knowsley, Rochdale, St. Helens, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford Council",
"description": "The Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the \"Services\"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply.",
"items": [
{
"id": "1",
"additionalClassifications": [
{
"scheme": "CPV",
"id": "60120000",
"description": "Taxi services"
},
{
"scheme": "CPV",
"id": "80340000",
"description": "Special education services"
}
],
"deliveryAddresses": [
{
"region": "UKC",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKD",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKE",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKF",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKG",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKH",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKI",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKJ",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKK",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKC",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKD",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKE",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKF",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKG",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKH",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKI",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKJ",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKK",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKC",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKD",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKE",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKF",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKG",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKH",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKI",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKJ",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKK",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
}
],
"relatedLot": "1"
},
{
"id": "2",
"additionalClassifications": [
{
"scheme": "CPV",
"id": "60120000",
"description": "Taxi services"
},
{
"scheme": "CPV",
"id": "80340000",
"description": "Special education services"
}
],
"deliveryAddresses": [
{
"region": "UKC",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKD",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKE",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKF",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKG",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKH",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKI",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKJ",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKK",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
}
],
"relatedLot": "2"
},
{
"id": "3",
"additionalClassifications": [
{
"scheme": "CPV",
"id": "60120000",
"description": "Taxi services"
},
{
"scheme": "CPV",
"id": "80340000",
"description": "Special education services"
}
],
"deliveryAddresses": [
{
"region": "UKC",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKD",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKE",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKF",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKG",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKH",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKI",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKJ",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKK",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
}
],
"relatedLot": "3"
},
{
"id": "4",
"additionalClassifications": [
{
"scheme": "CPV",
"id": "60120000",
"description": "Taxi services"
},
{
"scheme": "CPV",
"id": "80340000",
"description": "Special education services"
}
],
"deliveryAddresses": [
{
"region": "UKC",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKD",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKE",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKF",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKG",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKH",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKI",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKJ",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKK",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
}
],
"relatedLot": "4"
},
{
"id": "5",
"additionalClassifications": [
{
"scheme": "CPV",
"id": "60120000",
"description": "Taxi services"
},
{
"scheme": "CPV",
"id": "80340000",
"description": "Special education services"
}
],
"deliveryAddresses": [
{
"region": "UKC",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKD",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKE",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKF",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKG",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKH",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKI",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKJ",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKK",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
}
],
"relatedLot": "5"
},
{
"id": "6",
"additionalClassifications": [
{
"scheme": "CPV",
"id": "60120000",
"description": "Taxi services"
},
{
"scheme": "CPV",
"id": "80340000",
"description": "Special education services"
}
],
"deliveryAddresses": [
{
"region": "UKC",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKD",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKE",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKF",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKG",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKH",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKI",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKJ",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
},
{
"region": "UKK",
"country": "GB",
"countryName": "United Kingdom"
}
],
"relatedLot": "6"
}
],
"mainProcurementCategory": "services",
"techniques": {
"hasFrameworkAgreement": true,
"frameworkAgreement": {
"isOpenFrameworkScheme": true,
"method": "withAndWithoutReopeningCompetition",
"type": "closed",
"description": "A Call-Off Contract by a Purchasing Body may be awarded by Direct Award or Mini-Competition. DIRECT AWARD OPTIONS Where a Purchasing Body elects to award a Call-Off Contract by Direct Award, the award shall be made using one of the following permitted methods. The Purchasing Body shall specify the applicable method in the Contract Particulars and contract award notice. Option 1 - Lowest rate per mile * The call-off contract may be awarded to the Operator offering the lowest rate per mile for the specified requirement, provided that: (a) All Framework Suppliers submitted a price rate per mile information when applying to join the Framework; and (b) The award decision is objective, transparent and based solely on the lowest rate per mile. * Where the lowest price rate per mile Framework Supplier is unable to fulfil the Order, the Purchasing Body may offer the contract to the next lowest price rate per mile supplier in ranked order, until the Order is fulfilled. Option 2 - Lowest total cost for route The Purchasing Body may request cost information from each of the Framework Suppliers and offer the Contract to the Framework Supplier offering the lowest total deliverable cost for the specific requirement or route. Option 3 - Ranked list (combined score) The Purchasing Body may use a ranking system established within the Framework based on the best combined score - quality, price and social value. A Call-Off Contract may be awarded to the highest-ranked Operator based on the combined score that is able to meet the requirements. If the first-ranked Operator declines or is unavailable, the Purchasing Body may approach the next ranked Operator in Order. Option 4 - Urgent Requirement A direct award may be made where: 1. an urgent operational requirement arises; 2. a mini competition cannot be reasonably be undertaken in the time available; and 3. the urgency was not caused by the Council's own actions. Option 5 - Award Where Only One Supplier Can Meet the Requirement A direct award may be made where only one Framework Supplier is capable of meeting the specified operational requirement, for example due to: * specialist vehicle needs; * safeguarding restrictions; * geographic availability; * legally mandated driver qualifications or licence categories. The Purchasing Body must record the justification where this ground is used as required under the Procurement Act 2023. Option 6 - Direct Award for Continuity of Service Where continuity of service is essential (e.g., vulnerable children transport), the Council may make a direct award to the current Operator where: 1. Passengers would be adversely affected by any change in driver or provider; and/or 2. Passengers have expressed a clear preference for retaining the same driver or service provider; and/or 3. A change would cause disruption, confusion, or risk to vulnerable passengers; and or 4. Maintaining the current Operator is necessary to ensure consistent, safe and reliable service delivery. MINI-COMPETITION To conduct a Mini-Competition , the Purchasing Body shall: 1. Identify the Framework Agreement Operators capable of performing the Call-Off Contract for the Services; 2. Complete the Contract Particulars and supplement and refine the Call-Off Contract Terms and Conditions only to the extent permitted by the Framework Agreement or the Procurement Act 2023; 3. Invite Framework Operators to: i) to submit a supplemental tender within a specified time limit, which takes into account factors such as the complexity of the subject matter of the Contract and the time needed to submit tenders; and ii) keep each supplemental tender confidential until the expiry of the time limit for the receipt by it of the supplemental tenders; iii) apply the Mini-Competition award criteria to any compliant Supplemental Tenders submitted through the mini-competition; and iv) place an Order with the successful Operator by completing and signing the Contract Particulars. Notwithstanding the fact that the Purchasing Body has followed the procedure set out above for a Mini Competition, the Purchasing Body may cancel, postpone, delay or end the procedure without placing an Order for Services or awarding a Contract. Nothing in the Framework Agreement obliges the Purchasing Body to place any Order for Services. Mini-Competition Award Criteria Under the mini-competition route the following criteria and weightings shall apply. Purchasing Bodies may collaborate, and thus a requirement may be for an individual Purchasing Body alone, or for multiple Purchasing Bodies. The Purchasing Body shall determine the appropriate weighting that shall apply to their Invitation to Quote, however, the weighting must be within the ranges given. Quality 0-60% Social Value (included for contracts over PS100k only) 0-20% Price 40%-100%",
"openFrameworkSchemeEndDate": "2034-03-31T23:59:59+01:00"
}
},
"lots": [
{
"id": "1",
"suitability": {
"sme": true,
"vcse": true
},
"contractPeriod": {
"startDate": "2026-04-01T00:00:00+01:00",
"endDate": "2034-03-31T23:59:59+01:00",
"maxExtentDate": "2034-08-31T23:59:59+01:00"
},
"status": "active",
"hasRenewal": true,
"title": "Knowsley Council",
"description": "The Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the \"Services\"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply. * Passenger assistants - The Supplier will provide a PA where required. * To transport other types of passengers (outside of school run hours): o Elderly people o Council employees 2 Breakdown of Requirements 1. SEND Children's Home to School Transport including Post 16 transport * Bluebell Park & East Croft Primary, Kirkby - Approx 185 Service users * Alt Bridge Huyton - Approx 240 Service users * Knowsley Central Huyton - Approx 90 Service users * Meadow Park Stockbridge Village and Northwood Kirkby - Approx 50 Service users * Yewtree and Finch Woods Halewood - Approx 90 Service users * Out of Borough - Approx 300 Service users * Post 16 (Higher Education and College Transport) - Approx 70 Service users 2. Children's Social Care Transport, Ad Hoc Adult Social Care Transport (Inside and Out of Borough) and Ad Hoc Transport for Council Employees and Members 3. Adults' Home to Day Centre Care and respite Transport 4. Adults' Transport - Day trips and excursions (Inside and Out of Borough) Quantities and measures in this contract cannot be guaranteed",
"value": {
"amountGross": 96000000,
"amount": 80000000,
"currency": "GBP"
},
"awardCriteria": {
"criteria": [
{
"type": "quality",
"name": "Quality",
"description": "Quality is made up of relevant questions detailed in the documentation and social value considerations.",
"numbers": [
{
"number": 100,
"weight": "percentageExact"
}
]
}
]
}
},
{
"id": "2",
"title": "Rochdale Council",
"description": "The Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the \"Services\"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply. Passenger assistants - Passenger assistants are provided by Rochdale Council unless Rochdale Council requests the Operator to provide a passenger assistant. To transport other types of passengers (outside of school run hours): 2 Indicative locations and volumes Rochdale Borough Council has 4 special schools, 4 mainstream schools with specialist (resourced) provision places, 4 HUBS but also places children and young people in schools within other local authorities if appropriate. At the start of the Academic year 2025 the Council had 300 routes operating and 825 children and young people utilising SEND Transport. It is predicted that the number of routes will increase in 2026-2027 as more children and young people require specialist educational settings.",
"status": "active",
"value": {
"amountGross": 96000000,
"amount": 80000000,
"currency": "GBP"
},
"awardCriteria": {
"criteria": [
{
"type": "quality",
"name": "Quality",
"description": "Quality is made up of relevant questions detailed in the documentation and social value considerations.",
"numbers": [
{
"number": 100,
"weight": "percentageExact"
}
]
}
]
},
"suitability": {
"sme": true,
"vcse": true
},
"contractPeriod": {
"startDate": "2026-04-01T00:00:00+01:00",
"endDate": "2034-03-31T23:59:59+01:00"
}
},
{
"id": "3",
"title": "St Helens Council",
"description": "The Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the \"Services\"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply. Passenger assistants - The Supplier will provide a PA where required. To transport other types of passengers (outside of school run hours): Elderly people Breakdown of Requirements St Helens Council provides transport daily to approximately 800 children and young people, this number is subject to change. The Council has 3 special schools and several resource bases in mainstream schools. St Helens Council also have young people who attend their educational setting in a different local authority. The Service Provider shall deliver flexible and safe transport for eligible children and young people aged 4-25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The service must include transport for post-16 learners and for pupils placed both within and outside the St Helens area. The Provider may also be required to deliver ad-hoc transport for elderly or vulnerable adults where commissioned by the St Helens Council.",
"status": "active",
"value": {
"amountGross": 96000000,
"amount": 80000000,
"currency": "GBP"
},
"awardCriteria": {
"criteria": [
{
"type": "quality",
"name": "Quality",
"description": "Quality is made up of relevant questions detailed in the documentation and social value considerations.",
"numbers": [
{
"number": 100,
"weight": "percentageExact"
}
]
}
]
},
"suitability": {
"sme": true,
"vcse": true
},
"contractPeriod": {
"startDate": "2026-04-01T00:00:00+01:00",
"endDate": "2034-03-31T23:59:59+01:00"
}
},
{
"id": "4",
"title": "Stockport Council",
"description": "The Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the \"Services\"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply. Passenger assistants - The Supplier will provide a PA where required. To transport other types of passengers (outside of school run hours) to overnight short break stays this can include evening and weekend during term time and school holidays * Young adults (19-25) to education provisions * The suppliers should contact families, via phone call initially, prior to transport commencing to introduce themselves, and discuss the transport requirements for the passenger. An introductory visit should then arranged with them, if they feel that this is necessary before any route begins.",
"status": "active",
"value": {
"amountGross": 84000000,
"amount": 70000000,
"currency": "GBP"
},
"awardCriteria": {
"criteria": [
{
"type": "quality",
"name": "Quality",
"description": "Quality is made up of relevant questions detailed in the documentation and social value considerations.",
"numbers": [
{
"number": 100,
"weight": "percentageExact"
}
]
}
]
},
"suitability": {
"sme": true,
"vcse": true
},
"contractPeriod": {
"startDate": "2026-04-01T00:00:00+01:00",
"endDate": "2034-03-31T23:59:59+01:00"
}
},
{
"id": "5",
"title": "Tameside Council",
"description": "The Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the \"Services\"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply. Scope * Passenger assistants - The Supplier will provide a PA where required. * To transport other types of passengers (outside of school run hours): Elderly people children and young people (aged 3 - 25 years of age) with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), and Vulnerable adults to access an educational setting, respite care or day care. (Vulnerable Adults only applicable to Tameside Council)",
"status": "active",
"value": {
"amountGross": 96000000,
"amount": 80000000,
"currency": "GBP"
},
"awardCriteria": {
"criteria": [
{
"type": "quality",
"name": "Quality",
"description": "Quality is made up of relevant questions detailed in the documentation and social value considerations.",
"numbers": [
{
"number": 100,
"weight": "percentageExact"
}
]
}
]
},
"suitability": {
"sme": true,
"vcse": true
},
"contractPeriod": {
"startDate": "2026-04-01T00:00:00+01:00",
"endDate": "2034-03-31T23:59:59+01:00"
}
},
{
"id": "6",
"title": "Trafford Council",
"description": "The Councils require the provision of Transport Services, including for young people between home and school (the \"Services\"). The Supplier will be expected to provide the Services for specific Councils, with the aims of good quality, safety, value for money and sustainability. The Councils also aim to avoid disruption in supply. Scope * Passenger assistants - The Supplier will provide a PA where required. * To transport other types of passengers (outside of school run hours): * including vulnerable adults. * (Vulnerable Adults only applicable to Trafford Council)",
"status": "active",
"value": {
"amountGross": 67200000,
"amount": 56000000,
"currency": "GBP"
},
"awardCriteria": {
"criteria": [
{
"type": "quality",
"name": "Quality",
"description": "Quality is made up of relevant questions detailed in the documentation and social value considerations.",
"numbers": [
{
"number": 100,
"weight": "percentageExact"
}
]
}
]
},
"suitability": {
"sme": true,
"vcse": true
},
"contractPeriod": {
"startDate": "2026-04-01T00:00:00+01:00",
"endDate": "2034-03-31T23:59:59+01:00"
}
}
],
"communication": {
"futureNoticeDate": "2025-09-01T23:59:59+01:00"
},
"status": "active",
"aboveThreshold": true,
"value": {
"amountGross": 535200000,
"amount": 446000000,
"currency": "GBP"
},
"procurementMethod": "open",
"procurementMethodDetails": "Competitive flexible procedure",
"procedure": {
"features": "The Open Framework (the \"Contract Period\") is anticipated to remain in effect for a maximum duration of eight (8) years. An Open Framework is the umbrella term for a series of subsequent frameworks awarded on substantially the same terms. The timelines set out below indicate the initial, intended operation of the Framework; however, these are indicative only and may be subject to amendment at the Authority's discretion. Each period is referred to as a Framework followed by a number; this outlines the framework agreement life span before re-opening to the market for further competition. The timeline below indicates the potential for extension of each framework, but as a minimum new framework will be retendered in the 3rd year of the contract period and in the 6th. 1.1.2 Framework 1: To be established for an initial term of twelve (12) months, with the Authority reserving the right to extend the term by up to two (2) additional years, exercised in annual increments. 1.1.3 Framework 2: To operate for a fixed term of two (2) years, with the Authority reserving the right to extend the term by a further one (1) year. 1.1.4 Framework 3: To operate for a fixed term of two (2) years, with no extension provisions. 1.1.5 Those successful on each of the frameworks will be offered the opportunity to retain their existing bid for submission on the next corresponding framework, resubmit a new tender or withdraw from the future process. Note that failing to be selected from any of the frameworks does not preclude you from any of the future frameworks, but if you are successful and withdraw from the next framework but wish to join the framework after that, you will need to resubmit as you will not automatically be invited to that framework following a gap."
},
"submissionMethodDetails": "https://procontract.due-north.com/",
"submissionTerms": {
"electronicSubmissionPolicy": "allowed",
"languages": [
"en"
]
},
"tenderPeriod": {
"endDate": "2026-01-19T12:00:00Z"
},
"enquiryPeriod": {
"endDate": "2026-01-12T17:00:00Z"
},
"awardPeriod": {
"endDate": "2026-03-26T23:59:59Z"
},
"documents": [
{
"id": "conflictOfInterest",
"documentType": "conflictOfInterest",
"description": "Not published"
},
{
"id": "L-1",
"documentType": "biddingDocuments",
"url": "https://procontract.due-north.com/Procurer/Advert/AdvertSummary?projectId=e7defaf8-47cf-f011-813a-005056b64545&projectStepId=f4defaf8-47cf-f011-813a-005056b64545"
},
{
"id": "L-2",
"documentType": "technicalSpecifications",
"url": "https://procontract.due-north.com/Procurer/Advert/AdvertSummary?projectId=e7defaf8-47cf-f011-813a-005056b64545&projectStepId=f4defaf8-47cf-f011-813a-005056b64545"
},
{
"id": "080236-2025",
"documentType": "tenderNotice",
"noticeType": "UK4",
"description": "Tender notice on Find a Tender",
"url": "https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/080236-2025",
"datePublished": "2025-12-05T14:39:27Z",
"format": "text/html"
}
]
},
"language": "en"
}