Scope
Reference
S1057 2026
Description
NIE Networks intends, following the process outlined in this Invitation to Tender, to appoint Suppliers to enter into a Framework Agreement for the provision of the Services , as detailed below.
The main scope of responsibilities will include the following:
• Management and operation of all the infrastructure elements that the OTN comprises. This will include the management of third parties who undertake specialist functions, e.g. rigging, tower inspections & fibre works.
• Responsibility for the maintenance and provision of end-to-end connectivity down to individual circuit level between various points on the Customer's networks.
• Provision of a single point of contact for all matters concerning the operation and management of the OTN.
• Provision of a single point of contact for all matters concerning the cybersecurity of the OTN
• Provision of in-house NOC, SOC and SIEM
• Procurement of services and equipment from third-party providers.
Total value (estimated)
- £104,100,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 October 2026 to 30 September 2031
- Possible extension to 30 September 2034
- 8 years
Description of possible extension:
Option to extend for 3 years following initial contract period
Options
The right to additional purchases while the contract is valid.
Option to extend for 3 years following initial contract period
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 50332000 - Telecommunications-infrastructure maintenance services
- 42961200 - Scada or equivalent system
- 64200000 - Telecommunications services
Contract locations
- UKN - Northern Ireland
Participation
Legal and financial capacity conditions of participation
As specified within the RTP and/or tender documents available from the address included within this notice with the reference project S1057 Provision of Managed Service for Operational Telecoms Network (OTN)
Technical ability conditions of participation
As specified within the RTP and/or tender documents available from the address included within this notice with the reference project S1057 Provision of Managed Service for Operational Telecoms Network (OTN)
Submission
Enquiry deadline
8 August 2025, 12:00pm
Submission type
Requests to participate
Deadline for requests to participate
15 August 2025, 12:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Suppliers to be invited to tender
Maximum 4 suppliers
Award decision date (estimated)
31 March 2026
Award criteria
| Name | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | Quality | 60% |
| Cost | Cost | 40% |
Other information
Applicable trade agreements
- Government Procurement Agreement (GPA)
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Competitive flexible procedure
Special regime
Utilities
Competitive flexible procedure description
As specified within the RTP and/or tender documents available from the address included within this notice with the reference project S1057 Provision of Managed Service for Operational Telecoms Network (OTN)
Contracting authority
Northern Ireland Electricity Networks Limited
- Companies House: NI026041
120 Malone Road
Belfast
BT9 5HT
United Kingdom
Organisation type: Private utility
Devolved regulations that apply: Northern Ireland