Automatic Counters Framework · UK public procurement notice

Automatic Cycle and Pedestrian Counters (ACC) are one of the core tools used by Sustrans’ Research and Monitoring Unit (RMU) to monitor usage by cyclists and pedestrians of the National Cycle Network and other routes. ACC are installed across the UK, as part of monitoring to meet the aims and objectives of both Sustrans and external funders.

ACCs generate continuous data on the volume trips on a route over a long time period, often to monitor the impact of interventions.

ACCs are expected to meet the following criteria:

Provide a continuous and accurate count of route users at time intervals of an hour or less

Disaggregate counts by cycles and pedestrians (as a minimum – further mode disaggregation is welcome)

Provide data remotely in a form that has pre-existing and automatic compatibility with Drakewell’s C2 platform (eg. via an API)

Does not require scheduled battery replacement (ie. has a permanent power supply, either solar or mains)

Work in different location types (eg. on road, road adjacent, traffic free) and surface types, with minimal impact on the surface condition or material over the lifetime of the counter. Should the path deteriorate maintenance will be provided.

Sustrans do not have any preference as to the type of hardware used (ie. induction loop, piezo strips, laser, image recognition) if it meets the above requirements.

Sustrans will also be seeking from the suppliers ongoing maintenance and data transmission for up to 5 years for each of their counters after installation. The maintenance contract is expected to include one annual site visit and any minor maintenance carried out on site. Repairs under warranty will also be included. Ad hoc site visits and out-of-warranty repairs will be chargeable by the supplier.

Sustrans will provide the supplier with full and complete details of the proposed locations of the ACC and the directions of travel to be counted, although it is expected that the supplier will use their knowledge and expertise to install the counter in the optimal location, between a clear set of points, once on site.

Sustrans install ACCs across the UK therefore it is important that suppliers are clear about their geographic capabilities ie UK wide, England only etc. Limited geographic coverage will not rule out a supplier from the framework but we do need to understand geographic coverage.