Scope
Description
The UK CSM Demonstration Survey is a major seabed survey that will take place in April-May 2026. It is a novel collaboration between public sector organisations to integrate respective survey activities under the umbrella of the UK Centre for Seabed Mapping (UK CSM).
This tender is to commission suitably experienced marine archaeological geophysicists/surveyors to participate in the CSM Demonstration Survey on behalf of Historic England. The survey will be carried out aboard RV Cefas Endeavour. Survey operations will be carried out 24 hours; HE-commissioned geophysicists/surveyors will operate a single 12-hour shift. Accommodation and subsistence will be provided aboard.
Options are being maintained for different survey areas to allow for weather. The survey vessel will mobilise at Lowestoft and demobilise at Falmouth. Crew change will occur at Lowestoft or Falmouth. Other than the crew change, the vessel is not expected to return to port during each leg of the survey.
Historic England’s requirement is for one geophysicist/surveyor to participate in each leg of the survey. Tenderers can bid for either one or for both survey legs. Historic England’s preference is to commission one contractor to cover both legs but reserves the right to commission one contractor for each leg.
Total value (estimated)
- £28,999 excluding VAT
- £34,800 including VAT
Below the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 20 March 2026 to 31 July 2026
- Possible extension to 31 August 2026
- 5 months, 12 days
Description of possible extension:
1 month
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 45212350 - Buildings of particular historical or architectural interest
- 73100000 - Research and experimental development services
Participation
This procurement is reserved for
- UK suppliers
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSEs)
Submission
Tender submission deadline
6 March 2026, 9:30am
Submission address and any special instructions
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Award criteria
20% Price 80% quality
Procedure
Procedure type
Below threshold - open competition
Contracting authority
Historic England
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PXLY-5862-RMML
The Engine House
Swindon
SN22EH
United Kingdom
Region: UKK14 - Swindon
Organisation type: Public authority - central government