Planning

Dynamic Market for Local Bus Services

  • East Midlands Combined County Authority

UK2: Preliminary market engagement notice - Procurement Act 2023 - view information about notice types

Notice identifier: 2025/S 000-075134

Procurement identifier (OCID): ocds-h6vhtk-05e429

Published 19 November 2025, 11:21am



Scope

Description

Background and Context

East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) was formed in March 2024. We're led by an elected Mayor and cover the four local authority areas of Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Nottingham.

Keeping the East Midlands moving - our plans for transport

Transport is not just about getting from A to B. It's about how we grow our economy, connect our communities, and open-up opportunity.

With the powers secured through devolution, we now have the tools to reshape transport across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. As the new Local Transport Authority, we will lead a modern, joined-up transport system that works for everyone.

Further information on EMCCA's vision for Transport can be found here: Transport - East Midlands Combined County Authority.

Purpose of the Engagement

Under the new Procurement Act and Regulations, the old Dynamic Purchasing System from the PCR2015 has been removed, and no direct replacement exists under the new rules. However, a process called a Dynamic Market has been introduced which still offers some of the benefits and flexibility that the previous PDS process offered. As EMCCA is a new entity with no existing contracts we are seeking to establish compliant contracting pathways for our future requirements.

EMCCA's intention is to establish a local bus Dynamic Market that will enable the provision of safe, accessible, and efficient transport options designed to improve regional connectivity, support local economies, and meet the diverse mobility needs of residents. Services will include urban and rural bus routes.

EMCCA is committed to a competitive and transparent procurement process that promotes innovation, sustainability and affordability. Further details regarding the establishment of the Dynamic Market conditions of participation will follow.

The East Midland Combined County Authority (EMCCA) welcomes feedback on the intended approach from suppliers within the sector.

Scope of Services

The anticipated scope, subject to change, includes:

- Operation of local bus routes within East Midlands.

- Provision of accessible services for all passengers, including those with reduced mobility.

- Integration with regional transport networks and ticketing systems and schemes.

- Delivery aligned with sustainability objectives, including low-emission vehicles and energy-efficient operations.

How to Participate

Interested suppliers will be able to register for participation in the Dynamic Market once the Intention to Establish a Dynamic Market Notice is published. In the intervening period parties are welcome to contact the procurement team to discuss the intended process:

Email: transport.procurement@emcca.gov.uk

Commercial tool

Establishes a dynamic market

Total value (estimated)

  • £40,000,000 excluding VAT
  • £50,000,000 including VAT

Above the relevant threshold

Contract dates (estimated)

  • 1 March 2026 to 28 February 2031
  • Possible extension to 28 February 2034
  • 8 years

Main procurement category

Services

CPV classifications

  • 60000000 - Transport services (excl. Waste transport)

Contract locations

  • UKF1 - Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire

Engagement

Engagement deadline

14 December 2025

Engagement process description

Information provided on the scope of the Dynamic Market and anticipated time frame for the projected to be advertised


Participation

Particular suitability

  • Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
  • Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)

Submission

Publication date of tender notice (estimated)

15 December 2025


Contracting authority

East Midlands Combined County Authority

  • Public Procurement Organisation Number: PZXR-6887-DRNP

Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre

Chesterfield

S40 1UT

United Kingdom

Contact name: Joe Jeffrey

Email: transport.procurement@emcca.gov.uk

Region: UKF12 - East Derbyshire

Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government


Other organisation

These organisations are carrying out the procurement, or part of it, on behalf of the contracting authorities.

Nottinghamshire County Council

Summary of their role in this procurement: Nottinghamshire County Council

  • Public Procurement Organisation Number: PBCV-5152-BXBP

County Hall, Loughborough Road

Nottingham

NG2 7QP

United Kingdom

Region: UKF16 - South Nottinghamshire


Contact organisation

Contact East Midlands Combined County Authority for any enquiries.