Scope
Reference
PRO004990
Description
The primary objectives of this project are to achieve optimal centrifuge operations through effective start-up, monitoring, maintenance, and shutdown procedures. Personnel will be required to adjust operational parameters in line with process requirements and perform lubrication, oil and grease replenishment tasks according to the manufacturer's specifications. The project is structured around key phases, including centrifuge operations, routine maintenance, and site support. This involves handling materials and shunting equipment with telehandler operations. The Supplier is expected to meet performance standards that emphasize zero safety incidents, timely fault reporting, and adherence to maintenance schedules. Personnel requirements include mandatory licenses for telehandler and shunter operations, along with certifications such as NPORS (National Plant Operations Registration Scheme) or equivalent, AITT (Association of Industrial Truck Trainers) and CPC (Driver Certificate of Professional Competence). Additionally, all personnel must undergo occupational health assessments for working at height, have manual handling training, and COSHH awareness. The Supplier is obligated to provide necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools, ensure staff training and certification, and maintain compliance with UK water industry regulations and UU site-specific safety protocols. Performance standards are established to ensure zero safety incidents, timely fault reporting, and adherence to maintenance schedules. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) include 100% fault reporting within one hour, 100% maintenance compliance, and zero health and safety breaches. Contractual terms cover service hours, on-call requirements, notice for resource changes, insurance and liability coverage, and compliance with environmental and sustainability standards.
Commercial tool
Establishes a framework
Total value (estimated)
- £10,000,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 13 April 2026 to 13 April 2029
- Possible extension to 13 April 2034
- 8 years, 1 day
Description of possible extension:
Contract term is 3+1+1+1+1+1. Maximum term 8 years. Each extension provision is optional and discretionary.
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 90481000 - Operation of a sewage plant
- 42931000 - Centrifuges
- 50530000 - Repair and maintenance services of machinery
- 79600000 - Recruitment services
- 90420000 - Sewage treatment services
- 90470000 - Sewer cleaning services
- 90492000 - Sewage treatment consultancy services
Contract locations
- UKD - North West (England)
Framework
Maximum number of suppliers
2
Maximum percentage fee charged to suppliers
0%
Framework operation description
Tender documents to follow this PPN
Award method when using the framework
With competition
Contracting authorities that may use the framework
Establishing party only
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
17 November 2025
Enquiry deadline
12 December 2025, 3:00pm
Submission type
Tenders
Tender submission deadline
12 December 2025, 3:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
14 April 2026
Award criteria
| Name | Description | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial 40% | Overarching criteria for tender documentation only. Refer to tender docs that will be issued in due course |
Cost |
| Technical 60% | Overarching criteria for tender documentation only. Refer to tender docs that will be issued in due course |
Quality |
Weighting description
Award criteria will be outlined with tender documentations that will be made available in due course. There will be no scored assessment of this PPN.
Procedure
Procedure type
Competitive flexible procedure
Special regime
Utilities
Competitive flexible procedure description
The appointed providers will provide trained and competent personnel to operate and maintain centrifuge systems at a number of UU sites. Operators will also support site operations, ensure compliance with health and safety standards, and perform routine maintenance tasks. The primary objective of this procurement is to secure resources who can support with achieving optimal centrifuge operations through effective start up, monitoring and shutdown procedures. The personnel will be required to adjust operational parameters in line with process requirements and provide ongoing maintenance in line with manufacturer specifications. We intend to procure this required via Mercell EUSupply as a Competitive Flexible Procedure with an initial contract term of 3 years, and including discretional and optional extension periods for up to a further 5 years.
Contracting authority
United Utilities Water Limited
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PVVB-5589-BWHX
Lingley Mere Business Park
Warrington
WA5 3LP
United Kingdom
Contact name: Adam Almond
Telephone: +44 765823200
Email: Adam.Almond@uuplc.co.uk
Website: https://www.unitedutilities.com
Region: UKD61 - Warrington
Organisation type: Private utility