Camels Head Fire Station - New Build

The Authority is intending to contract for a new build fire station on our existing Camels Head site at Ferndale Road, Plymouth, Devon. The new facility will provide an emergency response function (with 3 fire appliance bays). The new fire station will be built to building regulations whilst incorporating low carbon systems. The contract will include demolition of the existing premise (excluding the tower). The onsite operational presence will be fully decanted in advance of site works commencing.

The Authority has engaged a project team that will design the build to RIBA Stage 4a before tendering. The design team will be novated to the Contractor.

The construction form of contract will be JCT Design and Build (2024) and any requests to amend terms will be required to be submitted during the the tender clarification window prior to tender return submission deadline.

We plan to go to tender in February 2027 with a 10-week tendering period. The intention is for the tender pack to include, but is not limited to: Invitation to Tender, Prelims and Contract Particulars, Design packs, and Pre-Construction Information Pack. The tender stage will allow time for a site visit.

The intention is to assess bids under a 70% Price / 30% Quality & Social Value split. Quality and Social Value themes for assessment will be confirmed in the tender pack but are likely to focus on project delivery approach, risk management, programme/deliverability, environmental impact and improving local community. Price will be assessed via a fixed price, with a pricing schedule breakdown.

Contract Award is anticipated in Summer 2027 with works anticipated to start onsite Autumn 2027, and completion during Winter 2028.

Contract performance will be monitored using KPIs which will be defined in the tender pack.

Our estimated cost of the build is currently £4.875m ex VAT, which determines this as a ‘public contract’ in respect of the Procurement Act 2023.