This public procurement record has 3 releases in its history.

Tender

12 Jun 2026 at 08:32

Planning

11 Jun 2026 at 07:56

Planning

16 Oct 2025 at 14:09

Summary of the contracting process

Cornwall Council is leading the tender process for the supply of replacement ferry main chains for the Torpoint Ferries, in collaboration with Plymouth City Council. This procurement, categorised under the 'Chain' industry, involves supplying 655m studless open link chains for the operational needs of the Tamar Crossings Ltd, with delivery in the United Kingdom's South West region. Currently in the 'tender' stage, the procurement adopts an open procedure with a submission deadline of 22nd July 2026, whereas the last date for enquiries is 8th July. The contract, valued at approximately £1.9 million, is expected to start on 1st December 2026 and carry the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability.

This contract offers substantial growth potential for businesses specialising in marine-grade and industrial chains, particularly those capable of providing high-quality products and innovative supply solutions that meet operational and logistical demands. Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with experience in marine operations and a track record of managing logistics and disposal of materials efficiently will find this tender particularly suitable. With a strong focus on price, quality, and social value, businesses leveraging these criteria are encouraged to participate, potentially enhancing their portfolio and market standing through successful delivery under this significant public sector contract.

How relevant is this notice?

Notice Title

Supply of Replacement Ferry MainChains for the Torpoint Ferries

Notice Description

Cornwall Council, on behalf of the joint authorities (Cornwall Council and Plymouth City Council), is re-procuring the supply of ferry chains for Tamar Crossings Ltd. in anticipation of the expiry of the current contract. The Torpoint Ferry operates three floating bridges, each requiring two 655m studless open link chains for propulsion and guidance across the Tamar Estuary. Chains are typically replaced every three years to meet operational requirements and Lloyd's Register wear tolerances, though actual replacement timing may vary based on wear. This procurement covers the supply of four pairs of main chains and an additional 150m of tunnel chain for connection to counterweight gantries. Delivery is required to site under DDP Incoterms and preserved for tidal storage. Suppliers must also manage the collection and disposal of used chains, returning any scrappage value (less admin fees) to Tamar Crossings. The procurement documents are available for unrestricted and full direct access, free of charge, at https://www.supplyingthesouthwest.org.uk - Search Latest Opportunities - Search for Project reference DN794497 Supply of Replacement Ferry Main Chains for the Torpoint Ferries

Lot Information

Lot 1

Renewal: The Contracting Authority reserves the option to extend for up to 5 years, subject to performance, requirement, and funding.

Planning Information

Cornwall Council, on behalf of Tamar Crossings Ltd., is conducting a soft market test to assess supplier interest and capability in delivering marine-grade ferry chains for the Torpoint Ferry service. This pre-procurement engagement aims to inform a future competitive tender for a 10-year contract (5+5 years) covering the supply, delivery, and disposal of ferry chains. Suppliers are invited to respond to technical, logistical, and commercial questions to help shape the procurement strategy. Participation is voluntary, non-binding, and does not affect eligibility for future procurement opportunities. If you are interested in this area of service provision and also helping with our assessment of the market, please find the documentation required using the following link: https://www.supplyingthesouthwest.org.uk/ ref: DN794497 Supply of Replacement Ferry Chains for the Torpoint Ferries

Publication & Lifecycle

Open Contracting ID
ocds-h6vhtk-05ce1c
Publication Source
Find A Tender Service
Latest Notice
https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/055515-2026
Current Stage
Tender
All Stages
Planning, Tender

Procurement Classification

Notice Type
UK4 - Tender Notice
Procurement Type
Standard
Procurement Category
Goods
Procurement Method
Open
Procurement Method Details
Open procedure
Tender Suitability
SME
Awardee Scale
Not specified

Common Procurement Vocabulary (CPV)

CPV Divisions

44 - Construction structures and materials; auxiliary products to construction (except electric apparatus)


CPV Codes

44540000 - Chain

Notice Value(s)

Tender Value
£1,900,000 £1M-£10M
Lots Value
£1,900,000 £1M-£10M
Awards Value
Not specified
Contracts Value
Not specified

Notice Dates

Publication Date
12 Jun 20262 weeks ago
Submission Deadline
21 Jul 20263 weeks to go
Future Notice Date
12 Jun 2026Expired
Award Date
Not specified
Contract Period
1 Dec 2026 - 30 Nov 2031 Over 5 years
Recurrence
Not specified

Notice Status

Tender Status
Active
Lots Status
Active
Awards Status
Not Specified
Contracts Status
Not Specified

Contracting Authority (Buyer)

Main Buyer
CORNWALL COUNCIL
Additional Buyers

PLYMOUTH CITY COUNCIL

Contact Name
Available with D3 Tenders Premium →
Contact Email
Available with D3 Tenders Premium →
Contact Phone
Available with D3 Tenders Premium →

Buyer Location

Locality
TRURO
Postcode
TR1 3AY
Post Town
Truro
Country
England

Major Region (ITL 1)
TLK South West (England)
Basic Region (ITL 2)
TLK4 Devon
Small Region (ITL 3)
TLK41 Plymouth
Delivery Location
TLK South West (England)

Local Authority
Plymouth
Electoral Ward
St Peter and the Waterfront
Westminster Constituency
Plymouth Sutton and Devonport

Further Information

Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS)

View full OCDS Record for this contracting process

JSON Markdown

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.

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