Scope
Reference
DN803005
Description
Tolls collected at the Tamar Bridge represent the major source of income for the Tamar Bridge and Torpoint Ferry which are operated and maintained as self-financing infrastructure. Despite offering a range of automated and cash-free payment options, a physical presence is still required in each of the five mixed mode toll lanes and to support our two automated lanes.
This high-profile 24/7/365 service has been contracted out since 1986, with the current contract expiring on 31 March 2027. The Authority seeks to procure a new arrangement with an initial contract term of three years, with optional extensions of up to five years in total, in any combination, giving a maximum possible duration of eight years.
The structure and flexibility of the extension options are necessary due to ongoing investigations into the potential implementation of an Open Road Tolling (ORT) system. Introduction of ORT would directly affect future service requirements, and the potential for change requires that the Authority retain discretion over if, and for how long, the extension options are exercised.
The contract incorporates a cleaning requirement for the adjoining buildings, providing some onsite flexibility of resources for the appointed contractor.
It is envisaged that a TUPE transfer of staff will be necessary.
Total value (estimated)
- £7,050,080 excluding VAT
- £8,460,096 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 April 2027 to 31 March 2030
- Possible extension to 31 March 2035
- 8 years
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 79941000 - Toll-collection services
- 63712311 - Bridge toll services
Contract locations
- UKK41 - Plymouth
Engagement
Engagement deadline
20 February 2026
Engagement process description
Tamar Crossings is conducting a soft market assessment to gain an understanding of the potential level of interest across all sectors in provision of toll collection services (TCS) at the Tamar Bridge. The Crossings does so on behalf of the owning Authorities, Cornwall Council and Plymouth City Council. The TCS is for the provision of staff to process vehicles and payments to meet a 24/7/365 operating schedule at toll booths located at the eastern (Plymouth) extremity of the Tamar suspension bridge.
Whilst this service is well established and has been provided by third parties over several decades, it is intended that the responses supplied will enable the Crossings to further develop and refine a business proposal. The proposal would be subject to the development and approval of a refreshed business case, and, as such, this exercise implies no commercial commitment.
This is not a formal tender document and participation of this soft market assessment will not prejudice suppliers participating in any future procurement.
Please visit our procurement portal (Proactis.com) www.supplyingthesouthwest.org.uk - Project No. DN803005, Tamar Bridge Toll Collection Service, here after expressing an interest you will be able to access and download the Soft Market Test documents.
Please then return your completed Soft Market Test document by close of Friday 20th February 2026, via the procurement portal (Proactis.com) www.supplyingthesouthwest.org.uk - Project No. DN803005, Tamar Bridge Toll Collection Service.
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
17 June 2026
Contracting authorities
Cornwall Council
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PYRH-9827-DWLP
County Hall
Truro
TR1 3AY
United Kingdom
Contact name: Mr James Howarth
Email: james.howarth@cornwall.gov.uk
Website: http://www.cornwall.gov.uk
Region: UKK30 - Cornwall and Isles of Scilly
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government
Plymouth City Council
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PBQP-8499-TLMP
Ballard House
Plymouth
PL1 3BJ
United Kingdom
Contact name: Mr James Howarth
Email: james.howarth@cornwall.gov.uk
Website: http://www.plymouth.gov.uk
Region: UKK41 - Plymouth
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government