Scope
Description
On 8 August 2024, the North East Combined Authority published notice of its intention to prepare an assessment of a proposed bus franchising scheme in accordance with section 123B and section 123C(4) of the Transport Act 2000, as amended by the Bus Services Act 2017 (Transport Act 2000)
The North East CA is developing the Franchising Scheme Assessment and is now seeking to engage with the bus market in order to inform the definition of the proposed franchising scheme. Bus Reform legislation and guidance requires the CA to state whether the commercial terms are likely to be attractive to operators - including a summary of the extent to which both incumbent and new operators are expected to bid.
The North East CA has prepared market testing materials including a note covering the proposed franchising scheme, and a questionnaire to gather operator views on the proposed commercial model. There is also an opportunity to request a 1-2-1 session with the North East CA.
The deadline to request 1-2-1 meetings and submit a questionnaire is the 14th November 2025. To receive the market testing materials or for any further information please contact Rachel.smith1@northeast-ca.gov.uk.
This market testing exercise does not form part of any pre-procurement.
Contract dates (estimated)
- 7 November 2025 to 30 November 2025
- 24 days
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 60000000 - Transport services (excl. Waste transport)
Contract locations
- UKC - North East (England)
Engagement
Engagement deadline
14 November 2025
Engagement process description
To receive the market testing materials or for any further information please contact Rachel.smith1@northeast-ca.gov.uk.
Participation
Particular suitability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Procedure
Special regime
Light touch
Contracting authority
North East Combined Authority
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PJMR-6594-BRGH
The Lumen, St James' Boulevard
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE4 5BZ
United Kingdom
Region: UKC22 - Tyneside
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government