Scope
Reference
PRO 21772
Description
National Highways is seeking to procure a supplier to undertake aerodynamic testing of all gantry types to be deployed on to the Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) project. The successful tenderer will provide subject matter expertise, computational analysis and specialist aerodynamic testing facilities to undertake virtual and physical structural performance testing that can replicate the aerodynamic behaviours of the Strategic Road Network.
The Lower Thames Crossing (LTC) is a new road to better connect Essex and Kent through a tunnel beneath the River Thames. Our purpose is to drive a change in how we deliver - connecting people to jobs, businesses to opportunities, leaving a skills legacy for the local community and championing biodiversity. low-carbon construction.
Our ambition is to deliver the UK's greenest road, and to do the right thing for local communities and the environment. We can only achieve this with the support of our supply chain, and it is therefore critical that for any supplier to be successful in winning work on LTC, they must demonstrate commitments to supporting delivery of our ambitions:
- Supporting LTC to leave a skills legacy for the local community. This means recruiting a local workforce and upskilling the supply chain to enable meaningful progression into higher paid higher skilled work.
- Delivering LTC with the lowest practicable carbon. This includes adoption of our 'zero emissions' intent, eradication of diesel on site and promotion of alternative sustainable fuels.
- Helping to create successful opportunities by providing early careers roles, such as apprenticeships, and inspiring young people into construction through delivery of STEM engagement.
Total value (estimated)
- £500,000 excluding VAT
- £600,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 2 January 2026 to 1 January 2028
- Possible extension to 1 January 2029
- 3 years
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 71621000 - Technical analysis or consultancy services
- 71630000 - Technical inspection and testing services
- 71632000 - Technical testing services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
20 August 2025
Engagement process description
Purpose of Engagement: An initial pre-tender briefing session to give an introduction and overview to National Highways and the Lower Thames Crossing Project, and an opportunity for potential bidders to provide feedback on the draft scope of works, tender submission requirements, indicative timescales and answer any questions.[
Proposed Activities: Supplier Meeting
Date(s) for Engagement: 10:00 AM on 20 August 2025
Location (if applicable): Microsoft Teams Meeting
Responding to this Notice
How to Respond: Respond with your name, title and contact email addresses for up to two attendees per supplier to ancillaryprocurement@lowerthamescrossing.co.uk
Response Deadline: By 5 PM on Friday 15 August
Next Steps:
Market Engagement Pre-Tender Briefing - 20 August 2025
Invitation to Tender - September 2025
Tender Period (30 Days) - September / October 2025
Contract Award -December 2025
Note: This UK2 notice supercedes any previous UK2 notice on LTC - Gantry Wind Tunnel Testing
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
8 September 2025
Contracting authority
National Highways
- Companies House: 09346363
Bridge House, 1 Walnut Tree Close
Guildford
GU1 4LZ
United Kingdom
Region: UKJ25 - West Surrey
Organisation type: Public authority - central government