Talking Trail Sculpture

Natural England is soliciting proposals for the creation, delivery, and installation of six hardwood sculptures for the Talking Trail project located in the South East of England. The project site is designated as both a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, requiring strict adherence to environmental protocols, including biosecurity measures such as washing and disinfecting all vehicles and tires prior to entry. All work must be performed on footpaths between 8 AM and 5 PM, Monday through Friday, with a prohibition on working in the dark during winter. The contractor is expected to provide concept sketches and undergo up to three revision stages before final approval, with a final delivery and installation deadline of 15 March 2027. This fixed-price contract has an estimated total value of 20,000 GBP excluding VAT. Reserved for UK suppliers and particularly suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises, the award will be based on the most advantageous tender. Evaluation is weighted 60 percent for technical merit—focusing on methodology, sustainable timber sourcing, key personnel experience, and public-area health and safety—and 40 percent for the whole life commercial cost. The intended period of performance begins on 23 October 2026. Payments will be processed via purchase orders, with a preference for electronic invoicing.