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Published 29 Apr 2026, 14:52 BST

Official UK procurement notice

Highways Urban Grass, Shrubs & Hedges Maintenance

Official notice

Authority: Kent County Council (Local council)

8 lotsServicesCompetitive flexible procedureAbove thresholdSME suitableMax 1 lot per supplier
Sectors: Construction & Civil Engineering (45)Real estate services (70)Architecture & Engineering (71)
+1 moreAgricultural, forestry, horticultural, aquacultural and apicultural services (77)
 Delivery: South East (UKJ4)
Published estimate£22,500,000total for 8 lots · £22,500,000 inc. VAT
Submissions closed 15 Jun 2026
Lots 8max 1 won per supplier
Contract term 5 yrsends 29 Feb 2032 · up to 28 Feb 2035 with extensions · starts 1 Mar 2027

What is being bought8 lots · detail below

Published requirement description

The Supplier shall be responsible for the delivery of programmed and ad hoc grounds maintenance services within the relevant service area.

The main service areas are anticipated to include urban grass, shrub and hedge maintenance to support visual amenity and maintain the safe passage of highway users by keeping roads, footways and associated areas clear of vegetation.

Works are generally expected to be undertaken Monday to Friday.

The annual activities are anticipated to include, but are not limited to:

  • programmed urban grass cutting visits;
  • shrub bed maintenance;
  • hedge maintenance;
  • rose bed maintenance;
  • conservation verge and wildflower maintenance;
  • other programmed maintenance activities; and
  • ad hoc works as required.

Further information will be provided within the tender documents.

The Authority currently intends to proceed with a two-lot structure, broadly aligned to the East and West of the county. At this stage, the Authority also intends that a maximum of one lot will be awarded to any single supplier.

However, the Authority recognises that Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) may require aspects of the procurement structure to be refined as the procurement progresses.

Accordingly, and in accordance with the Competitive Flexible Procedure, the Authority reserves the right to review and amend the lotting approach where reasonably necessary to accommodate LGR outcomes and/or support the Authority's operational and strategic requirements.

This may include amendments to:

  • the number of lots;
  • lot boundaries;
  • the maximum number of lots that may be awarded to any one Tenderer; and/or
  • other related aspects of the lotting structure.

To provide sufficient procedural flexibility should such amendments become necessary, this UK4 Tender Notice includes contingency provision for additional lots if required. This does not represent the Authority's current intended structure and should not be interpreted as a guaranteed or predetermined outcome.

The final lotting structure will be confirmed during the later stages of the procurement process. The Authority also reserves the right to award some, all or none of the lots stated within this notice.

The contract duration is an initial term of 5 years, with the potential for an extension of up to 3 years. The Council reserves the right to exercise the extension in any increments up to the maximum extension period, at its sole discretion.

The anticipated annual spend across all lots is currently estimated to be in the region of £2,025,000 per annum (inclusive of VAT).

The estimated total maximum value of this procurement across all lots is £22,500,000 (inclusive of VAT). This includes the initial contract term, optional extensions, and allowances for potential inflation, Compensation Events, and other unforeseen but in-scope expenditure.

As the lotting structure may evolve during the procurement process, the Authority is unable at this stage to confirm final values per lot. Further detail will be provided to Tenderers during the procurement process. Should the Authority proceed with the currently anticipated two-lot structure, the overall contract value is expected to be broadly split across the two lots. However, this does not guarantee an equal split due to the nature of the service; this is indicative only and subject to change.

To apply for this tender please use link:

www.kentbusinessportal.org.uk/commonNoticeSearch/v… ↗

PLEASE NOTE: When you click RESPOND on the page from the above link, you will be taken to a page entitled "Market Engagement" - this is an ERROR. Please then click REGISTER INTEREST to access the tender opportunity,

PLEASE NOTE: THIS UK4 TENDER NOTICE REPLACES DUPLICATE NOTICE : Highways Urban Grass, Shrubs & Hedges Maintenance

UK4: Tender notice

Notice identifier: 2026/S 000-039181

Procurement identifier (OCID): ocds-h6vhtk-068df3

UK4: Tender notice

Notice identifier: 2026/S 000-039181

Procurement identifier (OCID): ocds-h6vhtk-068df3 HAS BEEN TERMINATED

  • How the procedure runs: This procurement is being conducted using the Competitive Flexible Procedure and is expected to include the following stages: 1. Selection Stage (including any Conditions of Participation) 2. Initial Tender Stage 3. Optional Tender Clarification Stage 4. Optional Final Tender Stage Please refer to the Tender Documents for further details of the procurement process, including any applicable thresholds for each stage and the award criteria. The Authority reserves the right to amend the procurement process and/or introduce additional stages where necessary, including refining the procurement structure, requirements, award criteria, evaluation methodology and lotting arrangements during the course of the Competitive Flexible Procedure, in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023. Full details will be provided within the relevant tender documents issued at each stage of the procurement process.
  • No preliminary market engagement: Market engagement was carried out November 2025 under UK2: Preliminary market engagement notice reference : Notice identifier: 2025/S 000-077681 Procurement identifier (OCID): ocds-h6vhtk-05e777

CPV: Agricultural, forestry, horticultural, aquacultural and apicultural services · Construction work · Landscape gardening services · Real estate services

Lots and requirements (8)Procurement structure

8 lots · all with a published value (£22,500,000 together) · win at most 1 of them
Lot #1Lot description 2Renewal 5 yrsSMEPublished value£12,374,997

Lot description 2

The Supplier shall be responsible for the delivery of programmed and ad hoc grounds maintenance services within the relevant service area.

The main service areas are anticipated to include urban grass, shrub and hedge maintenance to support visual amenity and maintain the safe passage of highway users by keeping roads, footways and associated areas clear of vegetation.

Works are generally expected to be undertaken Monday to Friday.

The annual activities are anticipated to include, but are not limited to:

  • programmed urban grass cutting visits;
  • shrub bed maintenance;
  • hedge maintenance;
  • rose bed maintenance;
  • conservation verge and wildflower maintenance;
  • other programmed maintenance activities; and
  • ad hoc works as required.

Further information will be provided within the tender documents.

The Authority currently intends to proceed with a two-lot structure, broadly aligned to the West and East of the county. It is currently anticipated that Lot 1 = 1 West, and Lot 2 = 2 East. At this stage, the Authority also intends that a maximum of one lot will be awarded to any single supplier.

However, the Authority recognises that Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) may require aspects of the procurement structure to be refined as the procurement progresses. Accordingly, and in accordance with the Competitive Flexible Procedure, the Authority reserves the right to review and amend the lotting approach where reasonably necessary to accommodate LGR outcomes and/or support the Authority's operational and strategic requirements.

This may include amendments to:

  • the number of lots;
  • lot boundaries;
  • the maximum number of lots that may be awarded to any one Tenderer; and/or
  • other related aspects of the lotting structure.

To provide sufficient procedural flexibility should such amendments become necessary, this UK4 Tender Notice includes contingency provision for additional lots if required. This does not represent the Authority's current intended structure and should not be interpreted as a guaranteed or predetermined outcome.

The final lotting structure will be confirmed during the later stages of the procurement process. The Authority also reserves the right to award some, all or none of the lots stated within this notice.

The anticipated annual spend across all lots is currently estimated to be in the region of £2,025,000 per annum (inclusive of VAT).

The estimated total maximum value of this procurement across all lots is £22,500,000 (inclusive of VAT). This includes the initial contract term, optional extensions, and allowances for potential inflation, Compensation Events, and other unforeseen but in-scope expenditure.

As the lotting structure may evolve during the procurement process, the Authority is unable at this stage to confirm final values per lot. However, the values reflect current anticipated contract values, including £10,124,997 for Lot 1 and £12,374,997 for Lot 2, and nominal values of £1 for additional contingency Lots 3-8, as it is currently the Council's intention that these will not be utilised.

Further detail will be provided to Tenderers during the procurement process. Should the Authority proceed with the currently anticipated two-lot structure, the overall contract value is expected to be broadly split across the two lots. However, this does not guarantee an equal split due to the nature of the service; these figures are indicative only and subject to change.

Contract period: 1 Mar 2027 – 29 Feb 2032 (5 yrs) · up to 28 Feb 2035 with extensionsValue: £12,374,997 exc. VAT · £12,374,997 inc. VAT
Delivery: South EastEligibility: SME eligible
Extensions: There is the potential for an extension of up to 3 years. The Council reserves the right to exercise the extension in any increments up to the maximum extension period, at its sole discretion.''
45000000 Construction work70000000 Real estate services71421000 Landscape gardening services77000000 Agricultural, forestry, horticultural, aquacultural and apicultural services
Pre-qualification & selection criteria (PQQ)1
  • Technical & professional ability

    Detailed in tender documents.

Lot #2Lot 3 descriptionRenewal 5 yrsSMEPublished value£1

Lot 3 description

The Supplier shall be responsible for the delivery of programmed and ad hoc grounds maintenance services within the relevant service area.

The main service areas are anticipated to include urban grass, shrub and hedge maintenance to support visual amenity and maintain the safe passage of highway users by keeping roads, footways and associated areas clear of vegetation.

Works are generally expected to be undertaken Monday to Friday.

The annual activities are anticipated to include, but are not limited to:

  • programmed urban grass cutting visits;
  • shrub bed maintenance;
  • hedge maintenance;
  • rose bed maintenance;
  • conservation verge and wildflower maintenance;
  • other programmed maintenance activities; and
  • ad hoc works as required.

Further information will be provided within the tender documents.

The Authority currently intends to proceed with a two-lot structure, broadly aligned to the West and East of the county. It is currently anticipated that Lot 1 = 1 West, and Lot 2 = 2 East. At this stage, the Authority also intends that a maximum of one lot will be awarded to any single supplier.

However, the Authority recognises that Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) may require aspects of the procurement structure to be refined as the procurement progresses. Accordingly, and in accordance with the Competitive Flexible Procedure, the Authority reserves the right to review and amend the lotting approach where reasonably necessary to accommodate LGR outcomes and/or support the Authority's operational and strategic requirements.

This may include amendments to:

  • the number of lots;
  • lot boundaries;
  • the maximum number of lots that may be awarded to any one Tenderer; and/or
  • other related aspects of the lotting structure.

To provide sufficient procedural flexibility should such amendments become necessary, this UK4 Tender Notice includes contingency provision for additional lots if required. This does not represent the Authority's current intended structure and should not be interpreted as a guaranteed or predetermined outcome.

The final lotting structure will be confirmed during the later stages of the procurement process. The Authority also reserves the right to award some, all or none of the lots stated within this notice.

The anticipated annual spend across all lots is currently estimated to be in the region of £2,025,000 per annum (inclusive of VAT).

The estimated total maximum value of this procurement across all lots is £22,500,000 (inclusive of VAT). This includes the initial contract term, optional extensions, and allowances for potential inflation, Compensation Events, and other unforeseen but in-scope expenditure.

As the lotting structure may evolve during the procurement process, the Authority is unable at this stage to confirm final values per lot. However, the values reflect current anticipated contract values, including £10,124,997 for Lot 1 and £12,374,997 for Lot 2, and nominal values of £1 for additional contingency Lots 3-8, as it is currently the Council's intention that these will not be utilised.

Further detail will be provided to Tenderers during the procurement process. Should the Authority proceed with the currently anticipated two-lot structure, the overall contract value is expected to be broadly split across the two lots. However, this does not guarantee an equal split due to the nature of the service; these figures are indicative only and subject to change.

Contract period: 1 Mar 2027 – 29 Feb 2032 (5 yrs) · up to 28 Feb 2035 with extensionsValue: £1 exc. VAT · £1 inc. VAT
Delivery: South EastEligibility: SME eligible
Extensions: There is the potential for an extension of up to 3 years. The Council reserves the right to exercise the extension in any increments up to the maximum extension period, at its sole discretion.''
45000000 Construction work70000000 Real estate services71421000 Landscape gardening services77000000 Agricultural, forestry, horticultural, aquacultural and apicultural services
Lot #3Lot 4 descriptionRenewal 5 yrsSMEPublished value£1

Lot 4 description

The Supplier shall be responsible for the delivery of programmed and ad hoc grounds maintenance services within the relevant service area.

The main service areas are anticipated to include urban grass, shrub and hedge maintenance to support visual amenity and maintain the safe passage of highway users by keeping roads, footways and associated areas clear of vegetation.

Works are generally expected to be undertaken Monday to Friday.

The annual activities are anticipated to include, but are not limited to:

  • programmed urban grass cutting visits;
  • shrub bed maintenance;
  • hedge maintenance;
  • rose bed maintenance;
  • conservation verge and wildflower maintenance;
  • other programmed maintenance activities; and
  • ad hoc works as required.

Further information will be provided within the tender documents.

The Authority currently intends to proceed with a two-lot structure, broadly aligned to the West and East of the county. It is currently anticipated that Lot 1 = 1 West, and Lot 2 = 2 East. At this stage, the Authority also intends that a maximum of one lot will be awarded to any single supplier.

However, the Authority recognises that Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) may require aspects of the procurement structure to be refined as the procurement progresses. Accordingly, and in accordance with the Competitive Flexible Procedure, the Authority reserves the right to review and amend the lotting approach where reasonably necessary to accommodate LGR outcomes and/or support the Authority's operational and strategic requirements.

This may include amendments to:

  • the number of lots;
  • lot boundaries;
  • the maximum number of lots that may be awarded to any one Tenderer; and/or
  • other related aspects of the lotting structure.

To provide sufficient procedural flexibility should such amendments become necessary, this UK4 Tender Notice includes contingency provision for additional lots if required. This does not represent the Authority's current intended structure and should not be interpreted as a guaranteed or predetermined outcome.

The final lotting structure will be confirmed during the later stages of the procurement process. The Authority also reserves the right to award some, all or none of the lots stated within this notice.

The anticipated annual spend across all lots is currently estimated to be in the region of £2,025,000 per annum (inclusive of VAT).

The estimated total maximum value of this procurement across all lots is £22,500,000 (inclusive of VAT). This includes the initial contract term, optional extensions, and allowances for potential inflation, Compensation Events, and other unforeseen but in-scope expenditure.

As the lotting structure may evolve during the procurement process, the Authority is unable at this stage to confirm final values per lot. However, the values reflect current anticipated contract values, including £10,124,997 for Lot 1 and £12,374,997 for Lot 2, and nominal values of £1 for additional contingency Lots 3-8, as it is currently the Council's intention that these will not be utilised.

Further detail will be provided to Tenderers during the procurement process. Should the Authority proceed with the currently anticipated two-lot structure, the overall contract value is expected to be broadly split across the two lots. However, this does not guarantee an equal split due to the nature of the service; these figures are indicative only and subject to change.

Contract period: 1 Mar 2027 – 29 Feb 2032 (5 yrs) · up to 28 Feb 2035 with extensionsValue: £1 exc. VAT · £1 inc. VAT
Delivery: South EastEligibility: SME eligible
Extensions: There is the potential for an extension of up to 3 years. The Council reserves the right to exercise the extension in any increments up to the maximum extension period, at its sole discretion.''
45000000 Construction work70000000 Real estate services71421000 Landscape gardening services77000000 Agricultural, forestry, horticultural, aquacultural and apicultural services
Lot #4Lot 5 descriptionRenewal 5 yrsSMEPublished value£1

Lot 5 description

The Supplier shall be responsible for the delivery of programmed and ad hoc grounds maintenance services within the relevant service area.

The main service areas are anticipated to include urban grass, shrub and hedge maintenance to support visual amenity and maintain the safe passage of highway users by keeping roads, footways and associated areas clear of vegetation.

Works are generally expected to be undertaken Monday to Friday.

The annual activities are anticipated to include, but are not limited to:

  • programmed urban grass cutting visits;
  • shrub bed maintenance;
  • hedge maintenance;
  • rose bed maintenance;
  • conservation verge and wildflower maintenance;
  • other programmed maintenance activities; and
  • ad hoc works as required.

Further information will be provided within the tender documents.

The Authority currently intends to proceed with a two-lot structure, broadly aligned to the West and East of the county. It is currently anticipated that Lot 1 = 1 West, and Lot 2 = 2 East. At this stage, the Authority also intends that a maximum of one lot will be awarded to any single supplier.

However, the Authority recognises that Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) may require aspects of the procurement structure to be refined as the procurement progresses. Accordingly, and in accordance with the Competitive Flexible Procedure, the Authority reserves the right to review and amend the lotting approach where reasonably necessary to accommodate LGR outcomes and/or support the Authority's operational and strategic requirements.

This may include amendments to:

  • the number of lots;
  • lot boundaries;
  • the maximum number of lots that may be awarded to any one Tenderer; and/or
  • other related aspects of the lotting structure.

To provide sufficient procedural flexibility should such amendments become necessary, this UK4 Tender Notice includes contingency provision for additional lots if required. This does not represent the Authority's current intended structure and should not be interpreted as a guaranteed or predetermined outcome.

The final lotting structure will be confirmed during the later stages of the procurement process. The Authority also reserves the right to award some, all or none of the lots stated within this notice.

The anticipated annual spend across all lots is currently estimated to be in the region of £2,025,000 per annum (inclusive of VAT).

The estimated total maximum value of this procurement across all lots is £22,500,000 (inclusive of VAT). This includes the initial contract term, optional extensions, and allowances for potential inflation, Compensation Events, and other unforeseen but in-scope expenditure.

As the lotting structure may evolve during the procurement process, the Authority is unable at this stage to confirm final values per lot. However, the values reflect current anticipated contract values, including £10,124,997 for Lot 1 and £12,374,997 for Lot 2, and nominal values of £1 for additional contingency Lots 3-8, as it is currently the Council's intention that these will not be utilised.

Further detail will be provided to Tenderers during the procurement process. Should the Authority proceed with the currently anticipated two-lot structure, the overall contract value is expected to be broadly split across the two lots. However, this does not guarantee an equal split due to the nature of the service; these figures are indicative only and subject to change.

Contract period: 1 Mar 2027 – 29 Feb 2032 (5 yrs) · up to 28 Feb 2035 with extensionsValue: £1 exc. VAT · £1 inc. VAT
Delivery: South EastEligibility: SME eligible
Extensions: There is the potential for an extension of up to 3 years. The Council reserves the right to exercise the extension in any increments up to the maximum extension period, at its sole discretion.''
45000000 Construction work70000000 Real estate services71421000 Landscape gardening services77000000 Agricultural, forestry, horticultural, aquacultural and apicultural services
Lot #5Lot 6 descriptionRenewal 5 yrsSMEPublished value£1

Lot 6 description

The Supplier shall be responsible for the delivery of programmed and ad hoc grounds maintenance services within the relevant service area.

The main service areas are anticipated to include urban grass, shrub and hedge maintenance to support visual amenity and maintain the safe passage of highway users by keeping roads, footways and associated areas clear of vegetation.

Works are generally expected to be undertaken Monday to Friday.

The annual activities are anticipated to include, but are not limited to:

  • programmed urban grass cutting visits;
  • shrub bed maintenance;
  • hedge maintenance;
  • rose bed maintenance;
  • conservation verge and wildflower maintenance;
  • other programmed maintenance activities; and
  • ad hoc works as required.

Further information will be provided within the tender documents.

The Authority currently intends to proceed with a two-lot structure, broadly aligned to the West and East of the county. It is currently anticipated that Lot 1 = 1 West, and Lot 2 = 2 East. At this stage, the Authority also intends that a maximum of one lot will be awarded to any single supplier.

However, the Authority recognises that Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) may require aspects of the procurement structure to be refined as the procurement progresses. Accordingly, and in accordance with the Competitive Flexible Procedure, the Authority reserves the right to review and amend the lotting approach where reasonably necessary to accommodate LGR outcomes and/or support the Authority's operational and strategic requirements.

This may include amendments to:

  • the number of lots;
  • lot boundaries;
  • the maximum number of lots that may be awarded to any one Tenderer; and/or
  • other related aspects of the lotting structure.

To provide sufficient procedural flexibility should such amendments become necessary, this UK4 Tender Notice includes contingency provision for additional lots if required. This does not represent the Authority's current intended structure and should not be interpreted as a guaranteed or predetermined outcome.

The final lotting structure will be confirmed during the later stages of the procurement process. The Authority also reserves the right to award some, all or none of the lots stated within this notice.

The anticipated annual spend across all lots is currently estimated to be in the region of £2,025,000 per annum (inclusive of VAT).

The estimated total maximum value of this procurement across all lots is £22,500,000 (inclusive of VAT). This includes the initial contract term, optional extensions, and allowances for potential inflation, Compensation Events, and other unforeseen but in-scope expenditure.

As the lotting structure may evolve during the procurement process, the Authority is unable at this stage to confirm final values per lot. However, the values reflect current anticipated contract values, including £10,124,997 for Lot 1 and £12,374,997 for Lot 2, and nominal values of £1 for additional contingency Lots 3-8, as it is currently the Council's intention that these will not be utilised.

Further detail will be provided to Tenderers during the procurement process. Should the Authority proceed with the currently anticipated two-lot structure, the overall contract value is expected to be broadly split across the two lots. However, this does not guarantee an equal split due to the nature of the service; these figures are indicative only and subject to change.

Contract period: 1 Mar 2027 – 29 Feb 2032 (5 yrs) · up to 28 Feb 2035 with extensionsValue: £1 exc. VAT · £1 inc. VAT
Delivery: South EastEligibility: SME eligible
Extensions: There is the potential for an extension of up to 3 years. The Council reserves the right to exercise the extension in any increments up to the maximum extension period, at its sole discretion.''
45000000 Construction work70000000 Real estate services71421000 Landscape gardening services77000000 Agricultural, forestry, horticultural, aquacultural and apicultural services
Lot #6Lot 7 descriptionRenewal 5 yrsSMEPublished value£1

Lot 7 description

The Supplier shall be responsible for the delivery of programmed and ad hoc grounds maintenance services within the relevant service area.

The main service areas are anticipated to include urban grass, shrub and hedge maintenance to support visual amenity and maintain the safe passage of highway users by keeping roads, footways and associated areas clear of vegetation.

Works are generally expected to be undertaken Monday to Friday.

The annual activities are anticipated to include, but are not limited to:

  • programmed urban grass cutting visits;
  • shrub bed maintenance;
  • hedge maintenance;
  • rose bed maintenance;
  • conservation verge and wildflower maintenance;
  • other programmed maintenance activities; and
  • ad hoc works as required.

Further information will be provided within the tender documents.

The Authority currently intends to proceed with a two-lot structure, broadly aligned to the West and East of the county. It is currently anticipated that Lot 1 = 1 West, and Lot 2 = 2 East. At this stage, the Authority also intends that a maximum of one lot will be awarded to any single supplier.

However, the Authority recognises that Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) may require aspects of the procurement structure to be refined as the procurement progresses. Accordingly, and in accordance with the Competitive Flexible Procedure, the Authority reserves the right to review and amend the lotting approach where reasonably necessary to accommodate LGR outcomes and/or support the Authority's operational and strategic requirements.

This may include amendments to:

  • the number of lots;
  • lot boundaries;
  • the maximum number of lots that may be awarded to any one Tenderer; and/or
  • other related aspects of the lotting structure.

To provide sufficient procedural flexibility should such amendments become necessary, this UK4 Tender Notice includes contingency provision for additional lots if required. This does not represent the Authority's current intended structure and should not be interpreted as a guaranteed or predetermined outcome.

The final lotting structure will be confirmed during the later stages of the procurement process. The Authority also reserves the right to award some, all or none of the lots stated within this notice.

The anticipated annual spend across all lots is currently estimated to be in the region of £2,025,000 per annum (inclusive of VAT).

The estimated total maximum value of this procurement across all lots is £22,500,000 (inclusive of VAT). This includes the initial contract term, optional extensions, and allowances for potential inflation, Compensation Events, and other unforeseen but in-scope expenditure.

As the lotting structure may evolve during the procurement process, the Authority is unable at this stage to confirm final values per lot. However, the values reflect current anticipated contract values, including £10,124,997 for Lot 1 and £12,374,997 for Lot 2, and nominal values of £1 for additional contingency Lots 3-8, as it is currently the Council's intention that these will not be utilised.

Further detail will be provided to Tenderers during the procurement process. Should the Authority proceed with the currently anticipated two-lot structure, the overall contract value is expected to be broadly split across the two lots. However, this does not guarantee an equal split due to the nature of the service; these figures are indicative only and subject to change.

Contract period: 1 Mar 2027 – 29 Feb 2032 (5 yrs) · up to 28 Feb 2035 with extensionsValue: £1 exc. VAT · £1 inc. VAT
Delivery: South EastEligibility: SME eligible
Extensions: There is the potential for an extension of up to 3 years. The Council reserves the right to exercise the extension in any increments up to the maximum extension period, at its sole discretion.''
45000000 Construction work70000000 Real estate services71421000 Landscape gardening services77000000 Agricultural, forestry, horticultural, aquacultural and apicultural services
Lot #7Lot 8 descriptionRenewal 5 yrsSMEPublished value£1

Lot 8 description

The Supplier shall be responsible for the delivery of programmed and ad hoc grounds maintenance services within the relevant service area.

The main service areas are anticipated to include urban grass, shrub and hedge maintenance to support visual amenity and maintain the safe passage of highway users by keeping roads, footways and associated areas clear of vegetation.

Works are generally expected to be undertaken Monday to Friday.

The annual activities are anticipated to include, but are not limited to:

  • programmed urban grass cutting visits;
  • shrub bed maintenance;
  • hedge maintenance;
  • rose bed maintenance;
  • conservation verge and wildflower maintenance;
  • other programmed maintenance activities; and
  • ad hoc works as required.

Further information will be provided within the tender documents.

The Authority currently intends to proceed with a two-lot structure, broadly aligned to the West and East of the county. It is currently anticipated that Lot 1 = 1 West, and Lot 2 = 2 East. At this stage, the Authority also intends that a maximum of one lot will be awarded to any single supplier.

However, the Authority recognises that Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) may require aspects of the procurement structure to be refined as the procurement progresses. Accordingly, and in accordance with the Competitive Flexible Procedure, the Authority reserves the right to review and amend the lotting approach where reasonably necessary to accommodate LGR outcomes and/or support the Authority's operational and strategic requirements.

This may include amendments to:

  • the number of lots;
  • lot boundaries;
  • the maximum number of lots that may be awarded to any one Tenderer; and/or
  • other related aspects of the lotting structure.

To provide sufficient procedural flexibility should such amendments become necessary, this UK4 Tender Notice includes contingency provision for additional lots if required. This does not represent the Authority's current intended structure and should not be interpreted as a guaranteed or predetermined outcome.

The final lotting structure will be confirmed during the later stages of the procurement process. The Authority also reserves the right to award some, all or none of the lots stated within this notice.

The anticipated annual spend across all lots is currently estimated to be in the region of £2,025,000 per annum (inclusive of VAT).

The estimated total maximum value of this procurement across all lots is £22,500,000 (inclusive of VAT). This includes the initial contract term, optional extensions, and allowances for potential inflation, Compensation Events, and other unforeseen but in-scope expenditure.

As the lotting structure may evolve during the procurement process, the Authority is unable at this stage to confirm final values per lot. However, the values reflect current anticipated contract values, including £10,124,997 for Lot 1 and £12,374,997 for Lot 2, and nominal values of £1 for additional contingency Lots 3-8, as it is currently the Council's intention that these will not be utilised.

Further detail will be provided to Tenderers during the procurement process. Should the Authority proceed with the currently anticipated two-lot structure, the overall contract value is expected to be broadly split across the two lots. However, this does not guarantee an equal split due to the nature of the service; these figures are indicative only and subject to change.

Contract period: 1 Mar 2027 – 29 Feb 2032 (5 yrs) · up to 28 Feb 2035 with extensionsValue: £1 exc. VAT · £1 inc. VAT
Delivery: South EastEligibility: SME eligible
Extensions: There is the potential for an extension of up to 3 years. The Council reserves the right to exercise the extension in any increments up to the maximum extension period, at its sole discretion.''
45000000 Construction work70000000 Real estate services71421000 Landscape gardening services77000000 Agricultural, forestry, horticultural, aquacultural and apicultural services
Lot #8Lot 1 descriptionRenewal 5 yrsSMEPublished value£10,124,997

Lot 1 description

The Supplier shall be responsible for the delivery of programmed and ad hoc grounds maintenance services within the relevant service area.

The main service areas are anticipated to include urban grass, shrub and hedge maintenance to support visual amenity and maintain the safe passage of highway users by keeping roads, footways and associated areas clear of vegetation.

Works are generally expected to be undertaken Monday to Friday.

The annual activities are anticipated to include, but are not limited to:

  • programmed urban grass cutting visits;
  • shrub bed maintenance;
  • hedge maintenance;
  • rose bed maintenance;
  • conservation verge and wildflower maintenance;
  • other programmed maintenance activities; and
  • ad hoc works as required.

Further information will be provided within the tender documents.

The Authority currently intends to proceed with a two-lot structure, broadly aligned to the West and East of the county. It is currently anticipated that Lot 1 = 1 West, and Lot 2 = 2 East. At this stage, the Authority also intends that a maximum of one lot will be awarded to any single supplier.

However, the Authority recognises that Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) may require aspects of the procurement structure to be refined as the procurement progresses. Accordingly, and in accordance with the Competitive Flexible Procedure, the Authority reserves the right to review and amend the lotting approach where reasonably necessary to accommodate LGR outcomes and/or support the Authority's operational and strategic requirements.

This may include amendments to:

  • the number of lots;
  • lot boundaries;
  • the maximum number of lots that may be awarded to any one Tenderer; and/or
  • other related aspects of the lotting structure.

To provide sufficient procedural flexibility should such amendments become necessary, this UK4 Tender Notice includes contingency provision for additional lots if required. This does not represent the Authority's current intended structure and should not be interpreted as a guaranteed or predetermined outcome.

The final lotting structure will be confirmed during the later stages of the procurement process. The Authority also reserves the right to award some, all or none of the lots stated within this notice.

The anticipated annual spend across all lots is currently estimated to be in the region of £2,025,000 per annum (inclusive of VAT).

The estimated total maximum value of this procurement across all lots is £22,500,000 (inclusive of VAT). This includes the initial contract term, optional extensions, and allowances for potential inflation, Compensation Events, and other unforeseen but in-scope expenditure.

As the lotting structure may evolve during the procurement process, the Authority is unable at this stage to confirm final values per lot. However, the values reflect current anticipated contract values, including £10,124,997 for Lot 1 and £12,374,997 for Lot 2, and nominal values of £1 for additional contingency Lots 3-8, as it is currently the Council's intention that these will not be utilised.

Further detail will be provided to Tenderers during the procurement process. Should the Authority proceed with the currently anticipated two-lot structure, the overall contract value is expected to be broadly split across the two lots. However, this does not guarantee an equal split due to the nature of the service; these figures are indicative only and subject to change.

Contract period: 1 Mar 2027 – 29 Feb 2032 (5 yrs) · up to 28 Feb 2035 with extensionsValue: £10,124,997 exc. VAT · £10,124,997 inc. VAT
Delivery: South EastEligibility: SME eligible
Extensions: There is the potential for an extension of up to 3 years. The Council reserves the right to exercise the extension in any increments up to the maximum extension period, at its sole discretion.''Authority reference: 1
45000000 Construction work70000000 Real estate services71421000 Landscape gardening services77000000 Agricultural, forestry, horticultural, aquacultural and apicultural services
Pre-qualification & selection criteria (PQQ)1
  • Technical & professional ability

    Detailed in Tender documents.

Procedure terms & legal framework

From the official record
Procedure method
Competitive flexible procedure
Legal basis
UKPGA · 2023/54 Procurement Act 2023
Procurement category
Services
Notice status
Closed
Procurement threshold
Above threshold (FTS publication)
Regulatory regime
Standard
Commercial structure
Stand-alone contract (no framework)
Competition type
Competitive procedure
GPA / WTO covered
Unspecified in notice
Recurring procurement
Unspecified in notice
First published
29 Apr 2026, 14:52 BST
Last source update
15 Jun 2026, 10:24 BST
Award evaluation window
Submission end – 30 Sept 2026
Authority reference
CN250567
FTS notice number
2026/S 000-039280
Latest notice
Tender notice (UK4)
Classification (CPV)
Agricultural, forestry, horticultural, aquacultural and apicultural servicesConstruction workLandscape gardening servicesReal estate services
Delivery area
South East (UKJ4)
Official registry OCID
ocds-h6vhtk-068e2b Find a Tender
How it runs

This procurement is being conducted using the Competitive Flexible Procedure and is expected to include the following stages:

  1. Selection Stage (including any Conditions of Participation)
  2. Initial Tender Stage
  3. Optional Tender Clarification Stage
  4. Optional Final Tender Stage

Please refer to the Tender Documents for further details of the procurement process, including any applicable thresholds for each stage and the award criteria.

The Authority reserves the right to amend the procurement process and/or introduce additional stages where necessary, including refining the procurement structure, requirements, award criteria, evaluation methodology and lotting arrangements during the course of the Competitive Flexible Procedure, in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023.

Full details will be provided within the relevant tender documents issued at each stage of the procurement process.

How it was run

Official notice
Run through: ProContract (Due North) · Who buys & how to bid on ProContract
Supplier login requiredElectronic submission allowedLanguage: EN
Access & registration note: Free · short registration with manual review; public opportunity list
Requests to participate (first stage)
16 Jun 2026, 09:00 BST
Submission deadline
15 Jun 2026, 12:00 BST
Clarification deadline
12 May 2026, 12:00 BST
Submission channel
Official e-sourcing portal
Electronic submission
Allowed
Accepted languages
en
Detailed submission instructions & authority contactsFrom official release

Please use the below link to apply for this tender:

www.kentbusinessportal.org.uk/commonNoticeSearch/v… ↗

PLEASE NOTE: When you click RESPOND on the page from the above link, you will be taken to a page entitled "Market Engagement" - this is an ERROR. Please then click REGISTER INTEREST to access the tender opportunity,

Timeline

29 Apr 2026 → 1 Mar 2027 · 7 dates
  1. Tender notice published180 days ago
    29 Apr 2026, 14:52 BST
  2. Clarification questions by168 days ago
    12 May 2026, 12:00 BST
  3. Latest notice published134 days ago
    15 Jun 2026, 10:24 BST
  4. Submission deadline134 days ago
    15 Jun 2026, 12:00 BST
  5. Expressions of interest by133 days ago
    16 Jun 2026, 09:00 BST
  6. Award decision expected by26 days ago
    30 Sept 2026, 23:59 BST
  7. Today
    27 Oct 2026
  8. Contract startsin 124 days
    1 Mar 2027

Notice history

12 events · 8 releases on Find a Tender · since 29 Apr 2026
  1. Tender notice published
    29 Apr 2026, 14:52 BST
    UK4
  2. Tender notice published
    30 Apr 2026, 16:40 BST
    UK4
  3. Tender notice published
    1 May 2026, 17:34 BST
    UK4
  4. Tender notice published
    1 May 2026, 17:59 BST
    UK4
  5. Tender notice published
    6 May 2026, 11:50 BST
    UK4
  6. Deadline moved to 4 Jun 2026, 12:00 BST
    6 May 2026, 11:50 BST
    +1 days · was 4 Jun 2026, 00:00 BST
  7. Tender notice published
    3 Jun 2026, 18:22 BST
    UK4
  8. Deadline moved to 10 Jun 2026, 17:00 BST
    3 Jun 2026, 18:22 BST
    +6 days · was 4 Jun 2026, 12:00 BST
  9. Tender notice published
    10 Jun 2026, 16:53 BST
    UK4
  10. Deadline moved to 15 Jun 2026, 12:00 BST
    10 Jun 2026, 16:53 BST
    +5 days · was 10 Jun 2026, 17:00 BST
  11. Tender notice published
    15 Jun 2026, 10:24 BST
    UK4
  12. Procurement method changed
    15 Jun 2026, 10:24 BST
Published amendments (7)

TEXT ADDED TO SCOPE SECTION: PLEASE NOTE: THIS UK4 TENDER NOTICE REPLACES DUPLICATE NOTICE : Highways Urban Grass, Shrubs & Hedges Maintenance UK4: Tender notice Notice identifier: 2026/S 000-039181 Procurement identifier (OCID): ocds-h6vhtk-068df3 UK4: Tender notice Notice identifier: 2026/S 000-039181 Procurement identifier (OCID): ocds-h6vhtk-068df3 HAS BEEN TERMINATED

Updated URL address added to Notice, to allow tenderers to apply for this tender: https://www.kentbusinessportal.org.uk/commonNoticeSearch/viewNotice.html?displayNoticeId=1032478186 Lot 2 evaluation criteria amended to match Lot 1 evaluation criteria.

Further instructions provided for accessing tender opportunity.

Deadline submission (time) for clarifications and tender submission changed to 12pm - (12 noon) from 12am.

Deadline for tender submission has been extended to: 5pm (17.00) 10th June 2026.

Routine re-releases (8)
  • 2026-05: 3 releases · 1 May 2026, 6 May 2026
  • 2026-04: 2 releases · 29 Apr 2026, 30 Apr 2026

Contracting authority & participating public bodies

Kent County Council

Contracting authorityPublic authority - sub-central government GB-PPON: PLDL-8938-YGYW County Hall, Maidstone, South East, ME14 1XQContact email

Official documents & specifications (9)

Official links; attachments are not copied

Tender pack and attachments

  • Bidding documents and specifications tenderBidding documents and specificationsPlease use this link to apply for this tender. Once registered, tender documents will be made available. PLEASE NOTE: When you click RESPOND on the page from the above link, you will be taken to a page entitled "Market Engagement" - this is an ERROR. Please then click REGISTER…

Notices published for this procedure

  • Tender notice tenderTender noticeUK4Tender notice on Find a Tender
  • Tender notice tenderTender noticeUK4Tender notice on Find a Tender
  • Tender notice tenderTender noticeUK4Tender notice on Find a Tender
  • Tender notice tenderTender noticeUK4Tender notice on Find a Tender
  • Tender notice tenderTender noticeUK4Tender notice on Find a Tender
  • Tender notice tenderTender noticeUK4Tender notice on Find a Tender
  • Tender notice tenderTender noticeUK4Tender notice on Find a Tender
  • Tender notice tenderTender noticeUK4Tender notice on Find a Tender