Central Automatic Vehicle Location processing and reporting system

The Authority is seeking to implement a Central Automatic Vehicle Location (CAVL) system to support the mobilisation and operation of its bus franchise services. The system is a critical operational dependency, providing real-time fleet tracking, passenger information, and network performance data. It is required to be fully operational from Day One / Category 1 launch to ensure service continuity, compliance with passenger information obligations, and effective operational control of the network.

An open procurement process was previously undertaken in accordance with applicable procurement regulations and appropriately advertised. However, this process was subsequently cancelled prior to contract award as the submissions received did not meet the Authority's technical, operational, and mobilisation requirements within the required timescales. As a result, no contract was awarded under the original procedure.

Given the fixed and immovable deadline associated with bus franchise commencement, there is insufficient time to re-run a full open competition without creating a material risk to service mobilisation, operational readiness, and continuity of passenger-facing services. The Authority therefore requires a compliant alternative procurement route to ensure delivery of a fit-for-purpose solution within the necessary timeframe.

The Authority proposes to proceed via an appropriate framework agreement permitting direct award in accordance with its established call-off procedures. This approach is considered compliant with the Procurement Act 2023 principles, as the framework has been competitively established and provides a lawful route to award without re-opening competition. In addition, the use of a compliant framework and adherence to published call-off procedures significantly mitigates the risk of successful legal challenge, as transparency, equal treatment, and pre-agreed commercial terms are maintained. On this basis, the Authority considers that the proposed route is both legally robust and the only viable option to ensure timely delivery of a critical operational system.