This public procurement record has 1 release in its history.

Tender

15 Jul 2026 at 10:28

Summary of the contracting process

The East Kent Colleges Group is seeking a main contractor for the construction of a new block on the Elwick Road campus as part of the third phase of development at Ashford College. This tender, currently in the 'tender' stage, falls under the 'Building construction work' industry category. Located in Broadstairs, UK, the project is expected to deliver a three-storey extension providing approximately 1,700m² of space for educational facilities, including classrooms, IT suites, and a Student Union area. With a total estimated budget of £6.5 million, this open procedure procurement process will shortlist contractors based on specific criteria, with expressions of interest due by 14th August 2026 and the award anticipated by 15th August 2026. Construction is slated to commence in October 2026.

This procurement presents a significant opportunity for businesses within the construction sector, particularly those experienced with educational facility expansions or possessing relevant Kent project expertise. Suitable contenders should have a minimum turnover of £20 million and hold professional indemnity insurance of £10 million. Additionally, companies with demonstrated success in delivering similar projects in further education and those capable of adhering to strict timelines will be well-positioned to succeed. Participation can drive business growth by aligning with a prestigious educational institution and leading a project with substantial future impact on local education infrastructure. Smaller enterprises are also encouraged to apply, offering a chance to compete in a major infrastructure project.

How relevant is this notice?

Notice Title

EKC Group Ashford College - Phase 3.

Notice Description

The project will deliver a new block on the Elwick Road campus, building on earlier phases to provide a three-storey extension. Phase 3 will provide circa 1,700m2 gross internal floor area to accommodate a new junior college, a Student Union 'rec room', classrooms, IT suites, staff rooms and associated ancillary space, together with two additional first-floor workshop spaces connecting into the existing Phase 2 plumbing and electrical training facilities. The existing Student Union facilities within Phase 1 will be consolidated within the new ground-floor accommodation, with a direct relationship to a covered external area overlooking the campus grounds and memorial gardens. A simple 'grab and go' food and beverage provision is proposed within this space. EKC Group require a Main Contractor to deliver the above scope across RIBA Stages 4 - 7.

Publication & Lifecycle

Open Contracting ID
ocds-h6vhtk-06cba3
Publication Source
Find A Tender Service
Latest Notice
https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/066609-2026
Current Stage
Tender
All Stages
Tender

Procurement Classification

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

Common Procurement Vocabulary (CPV)

CPV Divisions

45 - Construction work


CPV Codes

45210000 - Building construction work

Notice Value(s)

Tender Value
£6,500,000 £1M-£10M
Lots Value
£6,500,000 £1M-£10M
Awards Value
Not specified
Contracts Value
Not specified

Notice Dates

Publication Date
15 Jul 20262 months ago
Submission Deadline
14 Aug 2026Expired
Future Notice Date
Not specified
Award Date
Not specified
Contract Period
5 Oct 2026 - 30 Sep 2028 1-2 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
EKC Group
Contact Name
Available with D3 Tenders Premium →
Contact Email
Available with D3 Tenders Premium →
Contact Phone
Available with D3 Tenders Premium →

Buyer Location

Locality
BROADSTAIRS
Postcode
CT10 1PN
Postcode Area
Canterbury
Country
England

Major Region (ITL 1)
TLJ South East (England)
Basic Region (ITL 2)
TLJ4 Kent
Small Region (ITL 3)
TLJ44 East Kent
Delivery Location
TLJ South East (England)

Local Authority
Thanet
Electoral Ward
Viking
Westminster Constituency
East Thanet

Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS)

View full OCDS Record for this contracting process

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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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