Path resurfacing within nationally protected designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest

Tender description

"The contract is to resurface existing paths within nationally protected Sites of Special Scientific Interest at Wirral Country Park and Heswall Dales Local Nature Reserve before the end of the 2021/22 financial year. Work needs to be undertaken by a proven contractor who can supply a locally produced recycled path surfacing material suitable for use on the protected sites and that has approval from Natural England and a licence exemption for use by the Environment Agency. The contractor also needs to have experience of working on a nationally protected site and the need for enhanced biosecurity measures. This work is time critical and needs to be completed prior to the bird nesting season and evidence of the completed work at Wirral Country Park passed to Natural England in early March to receive the funding for the Countryside Enhancement Scheme in this financial year. Work at Heswall Dales LNR also needs to be completed as soon as possible to allow access to the site so that essential grant work can be completed and claimed. All work will be funded from existing grants in place at both sites with Natural England. Using this local business supports Wirral Council’s commitment to carrying out its work in an environmentally responsible manner as well as reducing the need for quarrying of materials. The exception to procurement rules in awarding this contract is to ensure completion of work within a limited time period in order to secure the grant funding and to ensure compliance with our statutory duties as landowners and managers of nationally protected sites. Full Scope (Quotes received): Wirral Country Park SSSI Pond Path Restoration - £4,980 Heswall Dales SSSI (Footpath/bridleway) - £3,940 Heswall Dales SSSI (Rangers Cottage Path) - £2,600."