Scope
Reference
P-38335
Description
Defra is seeking to commission a multi-year research programme to strengthen the evidence base around solid fuel burning across the UK, with a focus on domestic settings. The contract is expected to run from 1st February 2026 until at least 31st January 2030 with the possibility of a one (1) year extension (which is not guaranteed), and is structured around four interlinked work packages. Previous research, similar in nature, can be found here;
https://sciencesearch.defra.gov.uk/ProjectDetails?ProjectId=20159
https://sciencesearch.defra.gov.uk/ProjectDetails?ProjectId=21104
This work is essential for informing trends in emissions from domestic burning, both indoors and outdoors and will support better policy and intervention development.
Total value (estimated)
- £1 excluding VAT
- £1 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 February 2026 to 31 January 2030
- Possible extension to 31 January 2031
- 5 years
Description of possible extension:
Potential for 1 x 1 year in extension periods
Options
The right to additional purchases while the contract is valid.
Contract start date: 01/02/2026
Contract End date: 31/01/2030
Contract End date with 1x1 year extensions: 31/01/2030 only applied if the extension is deemed necessary during the contract term
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 73200000 - Research and development consultancy services
- 90731100 - Air quality management
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Enquiry deadline
11 December 2025, 3:00pm
Submission type
Tenders
Tender submission deadline
18 December 2025, 3:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
https://atamis-9529.my.site.com/s/Welcome
Submissions must be made via the Authority's eSourcing platform.
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
15 January 2026
Award criteria
| Name | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Technical | Quality | 60.00% |
| Price | Price | 40.00% |
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Competitive flexible procedure
Competitive flexible procedure description
This procurement is being conducted as a Competitive Flexible Procedure in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023. Completion and submission of all documents will be conducted via the Authority's eSourcing system.
Following the evaluation stages 1-5 referenced in the Bidder Pack, the authority reserves the right to reissue the technical evaluation questions, pricing schedule, or any part thereof to the two highest scoring bidders, or any other bidder, for a Best and Final Offer (BAFO).
Please note that all bidders will be invited to submit improved responses on the same items. Bidders will have 10 calendar days to review, revise and resubmit their bid via Atamis. There will be a period of 5 calendar days for clarification questions. The exact dates of these periods and deadlines for submission will be shared with the relevant bidders.
! IMPORTANT - This is an optional stage for the Authority to ensure that the Most Advantageous Tender is selected, that the requirement has been fully understood, and that bidders are provided a fair chance to compete where the Authority does not feel ready to award after Stage 5 evaluation. Bidders should submit their best possible tender and price in the first instance, as it is not guaranteed that this stage will be used.
Contracting authority
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, FOOD AND RURAL AFFAIRS
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PNBD-3289-CDGX
Seacole Building, 2 Marsham Street
London
SW1P 4DF
United Kingdom
Email: procurement@defra.gov.uk
Region: UKI32 - Westminster
Organisation type: Public authority - central government