Scope
Reference
C32534
Description
The principal purpose of this contract is to investigate incidences of bycatch. This is sensitive species of bycatch, otherwise known as PETS which stands for protected, endangered and threatened species. Incidental capture (bycatch) of PETS in commercial fisheries is a major threat to the conservation of marine megafauna. Injury or death to the PETS bycatch can have population level impacts, socio-economic consequences and can also affect the fishers wellbeing involved.
Monitoring our seas and taking mitigating action to protect PETS is a statutory duty for Defra under the Fisheries Act 2020. Through the Fisheries Act 2020, the UK Government has committed to minimise and, where possible, eliminate bycatch of sensitive marine species to ensure sustainable fisheries.
Contract 2. Bycatch Monitoring Programme (BMP) - 25-26
Supplier
Contract value
- £435,869 excluding VAT
- £523,042.80 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Date signed
9 January 2026
Contract dates
- 10 January 2026 to 31 July 2026
- 6 months, 22 days
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 90711500 - Environmental monitoring other than for construction
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Direct award
Direct award justification
- Single supplier - technical reasons
- Additional or repeat goods, services or works - extension or partial replacement
Several aspects of work under the current contractual arrangement have been delayed due to unforeseen circumstances outside of our control. This STA direct award will provide sufficient time to ensure that those delayed tasks are completed as well as on going objectives delivered whilst we retender for a new replacement contract. Under the Procurement Act 2023, Schedule 5, Paragraph 6 provides a key justification for awarding a public contract directly to the original supplier when continuity is essential.
Supplier
University Court of the University of St Andrews (USTAN)
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PNWP-3282-YVVQ
College Gate
St Andrews, Fife
KY16 9AJ
United Kingdom
Email: procurement@defra.gov.uk
Region: UKM72 - Clackmannanshire and Fife
Small or medium-sized enterprise (SME): No
Voluntary, community or social enterprise (VCSE): Yes
Supported employment provider: No
Public service mutual: No
Contract 2. Bycatch Monitoring Programme (BMP) - 25-26
Contracting authority
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PNBD-3289-CDGX
Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street
London
SW1P 4DF
United Kingdom
Region: UKI32 - Westminster
Organisation type: Public authority - central government