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Published 21 Aug 2026, 14:44 BST

Official UK procurement notice

School and Special Transport Open Framework

Official notice

Authority: Bedford Borough Council (Local council)

Open framework scheme6 lotsServicesOpen procedureAbove thresholdSME suitableVCSE suitable
Sectors: Transport Equipment & Vehicles (34)Transport & Passenger Services (60) Delivery: East of England (UKH24)
Framework ceiling (notional)£48,000,000total for 6 lots · framework ceiling, not attributable revenue · 1 value update
Submissions closed 9 Oct 2026
Lots 6see the lot list below
Framework period 2 yrs 4 moends 19 Mar 2029 · up to 20 Mar 2034 with extensions · starts 1 Dec 2026

What is being bought6 lots · detail below

Published requirement description

Bedford Borough Council has a statutory duty to provide free home to school travel for compulsory school-aged children who meet nationally prescribed eligibility criteria and for post-16 students who meet locally determined criteria. To fulfil this duty, the Council commissions transport services from external providers using a range of vehicle types to meet the diverse needs of routes and individual passengers. In addition, the School and Specialist Transport Team arranges transport for a range of Adult and Children's Social Care requirements, including contact sessions, day services, and respite provision. To support the efficient and compliant procurement of these services, the Council is establishing a new Open Framework to replace the existing Passenger Transport Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS).

The procurement process will be conducted electronically through the ADAM eProcurement System, with approved providers being eligible to participate in future call-off opportunities under the Open Framework.

The Open Framework will be divided into 6 Lots:

Lot 1 Passenger transport services using vehicles with capacity for 1-3 passengers

Lot 2 Passenger transport services using vehicles with capacity for 4-8 passengers

Lot 3 Passenger transport services using vehicles with capacity for 9-16 passengers

Lot 4 Passenger transport services using vehicles with capacity for 17-33 passengers

Lot 5 Passenger transport services using vehicles with capacity for 49 or more passengers

Lot 6 Medical Transport Services

CPV: Hire of passenger transport vehicles with driver · Non-scheduled passenger transport · Passenger cars · Public road transport services · Special-purpose road passenger-transport services · Taxi services

How this framework works

From the published notice
Type
Closed framework · open framework scheme (admission reopens)
Call-offs
call-offs may be awarded directly or by further competition
Framework period
2 yrs 4 mo · up to 7 yrs 4 mo from 1 Dec 2026
Scheme runs until
30 Nov 2034
Published description of the framework

This procurement establishes an Open Framework for the provision of School and Specialist Transport Services. There is no limit on the number of providers that may be admitted to the Framework, provided they satisfy the published admission requirements and evaluation criteria. The Framework will be reopened periodically during its term to allow additional providers to apply for admission. Providers admitted to the Framework may participate in future contract award procedures for transport services.

Call-Off Contracts may be awarded either by Direct Award or through a Competitive Selection Process. Direct Awards may be made where this best meets the needs of the service user and may take account of factors including service continuity, SEND compatibility, safeguarding considerations, geographical location, vehicle suitability, operational capacity, urgent transport requirements, parent or carer preference, and best value considerations. Competitive Selection Processes may include mini-competitions, electronic auctions and reverse auctions conducted through the ADAM eProcurement System, with awards made on the basis of the Most Advantageous Tender.

Prices for individual transport services will be determined at Call-Off stage. Depending on the nature of the requirement, pricing may be based on rates submitted during admission to the Framework, direct award arrangements, negotiated route-specific pricing, or prices submitted through mini-competitions, electronic auctions or reverse auctions. Route-specific prices will be set out in the relevant Route Service Agreement. The Council may review and amend prices in accordance with the Framework Agreement, Call-Off Contract provisions and applicable procurement legislation.

Lots and requirements (6)Procurement structure

6 lots · all with a published value · same evaluation weights on every lot

Every one of these 6 lots carries the same published figure, £48,000,000: it is the framework's maximum for the whole notice, not each lot's own budget, and no share per lot is published. The cards below say ceiling above rather than repeat it.

Lot #1Passenger transport services using vehicles with capacity for 1-3 passengersRenewal 2 yrs 4 moSMEVCSEceiling above

Provision of passenger transport services for eligible children, young people and other authorised service users using vehicles with capacity for 1 to 3 passengers. Services may include home to school transport, transport to specialist educational settings, alternative provision, social care placements, medical appointments and other Council-approved destinations. Services shall be delivered in accordance with individual Call-Off Contract requirements and may include passenger assistance, safeguarding measures and reasonable adjustments to meet individual needs.

Contract period: 1 Dec 2026 – 19 Mar 2029 (2 yrs 4 mo) · up to 20 Mar 2034 with extensions
Delivery: East of EnglandEligibility: SME eligibleVCSE eligible
Extensions: The Open Framework will commence on 1 December 2026 and continue until 19 March 2029. The Council reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to extend the Open Framework on one or more occasions, provided that the total duration of the Open Framework, including all extensions, does not exceed eight (8) years from the commencement date. The Council will notify Framework Providers in writing where an extension is exercised. Route Service Agreements and other Call-Off Contracts awarded under the Open Framework may also be extended where the Open Framework is extended, provided that no Call-Off Contract continues beyond the expiry of the Open Framework. The Council also reserves the right, where permitted under the Procurement Act 2023 and as described within the procurement documents, to implement contract modifications including changes to routes, service specifications, passenger requirements, vehicle requirements, operating times, service scope, prices, payment arrangements and contract duration. · option to extend is available up to 5 years 8 months (until 30 November 2034)
34110000 Passenger cars60112000 Public road transport services60120000 Taxi services60130000 Special-purpose road passenger-transport services60140000 Non-scheduled passenger transport60170000 Hire of passenger transport vehicles with driver
Lot #2Passenger transport services using vehicles with capacity for 4-8 passengersRenewal 2 yrs 4 moSMEVCSEceiling above

Provision of passenger transport services for eligible children, young people and other authorised service users using vehicles with capacity for 4 to 8 passengers. Services may include shared and dedicated transport arrangements for mainstream education, special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), alternative provision, social care and other commissioned services. Transport shall be provided in accordance with route specifications and Call-Off Contract requirements issued by the Council.

Contract period: 1 Dec 2026 – 19 Mar 2029 (2 yrs 4 mo) · up to 20 Mar 2034 with extensions
Delivery: East of EnglandEligibility: SME eligibleVCSE eligible
Extensions: The Open Framework will commence on 1 December 2026 and continue until 19 March 2029. The Council reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to extend the Open Framework on one or more occasions, provided that the total duration of the Open Framework, including all extensions, does not exceed eight (8) years from the commencement date. The Council will notify Framework Providers in writing where an extension is exercised. Route Service Agreements and other Call-Off Contracts awarded under the Open Framework may also be extended where the Open Framework is extended, provided that no Call-Off Contract continues beyond the expiry of the Open Framework. The Council also reserves the right, where permitted under the Procurement Act 2023 and as described within the procurement documents, to implement contract modifications including changes to routes, service specifications, passenger requirements, vehicle requirements, operating times, service scope, prices, payment arrangements and contract duration. · option to extend is available up to 5 years 8 months (until 30 November 2034)
34110000 Passenger cars60112000 Public road transport services60120000 Taxi services60130000 Special-purpose road passenger-transport services60140000 Non-scheduled passenger transport60170000 Hire of passenger transport vehicles with driver
Lot #3Passenger Transport Services (9-16 Passengers)Renewal 2 yrs 4 moSMEVCSEceiling above

Provision of passenger transport services using vehicles with capacity for 9 to 16 passengers. Services may include scheduled and ad hoc transport for children, young people and other authorised service users travelling to educational establishments, specialist settings, alternative provision, social care placements and other approved destinations. Services shall be provided in accordance with route specifications and service requirements set out in individual Call-Off Contracts.

Contract period: 1 Dec 2026 – 19 Mar 2029 (2 yrs 4 mo) · up to 20 Mar 2034 with extensions
Delivery: East of EnglandEligibility: SME eligibleVCSE eligible
Extensions: The Open Framework will commence on 1 December 2026 and continue until 19 March 2029. The Council reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to extend the Open Framework on one or more occasions, provided that the total duration of the Open Framework, including all extensions, does not exceed eight (8) years from the commencement date. The Council will notify Framework Providers in writing where an extension is exercised. Route Service Agreements and other Call-Off Contracts awarded under the Open Framework may also be extended where the Open Framework is extended, provided that no Call-Off Contract continues beyond the expiry of the Open Framework. The Council also reserves the right, where permitted under the Procurement Act 2023 and as described within the procurement documents, to implement contract modifications including changes to routes, service specifications, passenger requirements, vehicle requirements, operating times, service scope, prices, payment arrangements and contract duration. · option to extend is available up to 5 years 8 months (until 30 November 2034)
34110000 Passenger cars60112000 Public road transport services60120000 Taxi services60130000 Special-purpose road passenger-transport services60140000 Non-scheduled passenger transport60170000 Hire of passenger transport vehicles with driver
Lot #4Passenger Transport Services (17-33 Passengers)Renewal 2 yrs 4 moSMEVCSEceiling above

Provision of passenger transport services using vehicles with capacity for 17 to 33 passengers. Services may include shared transport arrangements for pupils and other authorised service users travelling to mainstream schools, specialist educational settings, alternative provision and other approved destinations. Services shall be delivered in accordance with route specifications issued by the Council and the requirements of individual Call-Off Contracts.

Contract period: 1 Dec 2026 – 19 Mar 2029 (2 yrs 4 mo) · up to 20 Mar 2034 with extensions
Delivery: East of EnglandEligibility: SME eligibleVCSE eligible
Extensions: The Open Framework will commence on 1 December 2026 and continue until 19 March 2029. The Council reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to extend the Open Framework on one or more occasions, provided that the total duration of the Open Framework, including all extensions, does not exceed eight (8) years from the commencement date. The Council will notify Framework Providers in writing where an extension is exercised. Route Service Agreements and other Call-Off Contracts awarded under the Open Framework may also be extended where the Open Framework is extended, provided that no Call-Off Contract continues beyond the expiry of the Open Framework. The Council also reserves the right, where permitted under the Procurement Act 2023 and as described within the procurement documents, to implement contract modifications including changes to routes, service specifications, passenger requirements, vehicle requirements, operating times, service scope, prices, payment arrangements and contract duration. · option to extend is available up to 5 years 8 months (until 30 November 2034)
34110000 Passenger cars60112000 Public road transport services60120000 Taxi services60130000 Special-purpose road passenger-transport services60140000 Non-scheduled passenger transport60170000 Hire of passenger transport vehicles with driver
Lot #5Passenger transport services using vehicles with capacity for 49 or more passengersRenewal 2 yrs 4 moSMEVCSEceiling above

Provision of passenger transport services using vehicles with capacity for 49 or more passengers. Services may include large-capacity transport for school pupils and other authorised service users travelling to educational establishments and other approved destinations. Services shall be provided in accordance with route specifications, performance requirements and Call-Off Contract terms issued by the Council.

Contract period: 1 Dec 2026 – 19 Mar 2029 (2 yrs 4 mo) · up to 20 Mar 2034 with extensions
Delivery: East of EnglandEligibility: SME eligibleVCSE eligible
Extensions: The Open Framework will commence on 1 December 2026 and continue until 19 March 2029. The Council reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to extend the Open Framework on one or more occasions, provided that the total duration of the Open Framework, including all extensions, does not exceed eight (8) years from the commencement date. The Council will notify Framework Providers in writing where an extension is exercised. Route Service Agreements and other Call-Off Contracts awarded under the Open Framework may also be extended where the Open Framework is extended, provided that no Call-Off Contract continues beyond the expiry of the Open Framework. The Council also reserves the right, where permitted under the Procurement Act 2023 and as described within the procurement documents, to implement contract modifications including changes to routes, service specifications, passenger requirements, vehicle requirements, operating times, service scope, prices, payment arrangements and contract duration. · option to extend is available up to 5 years 8 months (until 30 November 2034)
34110000 Passenger cars60112000 Public road transport services60120000 Taxi services60130000 Special-purpose road passenger-transport services60140000 Non-scheduled passenger transport60170000 Hire of passenger transport vehicles with driver
Lot #6Medical Transport ServicesRenewal 2 yrs 4 moSMEVCSEceiling above

Provision of non-emergency medical transport services for eligible service users travelling to and from healthcare facilities, treatment centres, clinics and other approved medical appointments. Services may be delivered using a range of vehicle types appropriate to the needs of the passenger and may include transport for individuals with mobility, accessibility or medical requirements. Services shall be provided in accordance with individual Call-Off Contract requirements, safeguarding obligations and applicable service standards.

Contract period: 1 Dec 2026 – 19 Mar 2029 (2 yrs 4 mo) · up to 20 Mar 2034 with extensions
Delivery: East of EnglandEligibility: SME eligibleVCSE eligible
Extensions: The Open Framework will commence on 1 December 2026 and continue until 19 March 2029. The Council reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to extend the Open Framework on one or more occasions, provided that the total duration of the Open Framework, including all extensions, does not exceed eight (8) years from the commencement date. The Council will notify Framework Providers in writing where an extension is exercised. Route Service Agreements and other Call-Off Contracts awarded under the Open Framework may also be extended where the Open Framework is extended, provided that no Call-Off Contract continues beyond the expiry of the Open Framework. The Council also reserves the right, where permitted under the Procurement Act 2023 and as described within the procurement documents, to implement contract modifications including changes to routes, service specifications, passenger requirements, vehicle requirements, operating times, service scope, prices, payment arrangements and contract duration. · option to extend is available up to 5 years 8 months (until 30 November 2034)
34110000 Passenger cars60112000 Public road transport services60120000 Taxi services60130000 Special-purpose road passenger-transport services60140000 Non-scheduled passenger transport60170000 Hire of passenger transport vehicles with driver

What it takes to win
i

How this buyer will score bids.

The evaluation criteria and weights exactly as published on the notice, grouped by family (price, quality, social value and so on).

Evaluation split and conditions of participation as published; the tender pack may add more
How bids were scored · same split on all 6 lots
Quality: 10%Price: 90%
Published award criteria (2)
  • Price: Assessment of the tendered price submitted for the specific transport requirement. Prices will be evaluated in accordance with the award methodology set out in the Call-Off Invitation and Mini-Competition documentation. Competitive Selection Processes may be conducted through the ADAM eProcurement System and may include reverse auctions and electronic auctions.
  • Quality: Assessment of the Provider's quality score and service performance record maintained under the Open Framework. Quality assessments may take account of contract performance, service reliability, safeguarding compliance, operational performance, complaint management, audit outcomes and other quality factors established through the Council's quality assurance arrangements. Quality scores may be adjusted following quality audits undertaken by the Council.
Lot distribution rule: There is no limit on the number of lots that bidders can be awarded to.
What this means for your bid
  • Price carries 90 of 100 points: a 10% discount moves about 9 points. This one is won on the number: sharpen the price before polishing the prose.
  • “School and Special Transport Open Framework” is a framework: the contest is a place on its panel, not a single contract: call-offs may be direct or by further competition.

Price arithmetic assumes straight proportional scoring; the tender pack may use another formula.

Procedure terms & legal framework

From the official record
Procedure method
Open 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
Open framework scheme
Who may use this agreement
Not stated in the notice; call-off rights may be limited to the establishing authority
Competition type
Competitive procedure
GPA / WTO covered
Yes (GPA)
Recurring procurement
Unspecified in notice
First published
21 Aug 2026, 14:44 BST
Last source update
5 Oct 2026, 08:21 BST
Award evaluation window
Submission end – 25 Nov 2026
Authority reference
C BBC CH 00001
FTS notice number
2026/S 000-085188
Latest notice
Tender notice (UK4)
Classification (CPV)
Hire of passenger transport vehicles with driverNon-scheduled passenger transportPassenger carsPublic road transport servicesSpecial-purpose road passenger-transport servicesTaxi services
Delivery area
East of England (UKH24)
Official registry OCID
ocds-h6vhtk-06e9b8 Find a Tender
Review and risk notes
Risks

The Authority may need to modify the Open Framework Agreement, Route Service Agreements and/or Call-Off Contracts should one or more of the following known risks materialise:

Changes to passenger numbers, passenger needs, travel care plans, SEND requirements, safeguarding requirements or medical needs requiring amendments to vehicle type, vehicle capacity, staffing levels, specialist equipment, pick-up or drop-off arrangements, route configuration or journey schedules.

Changes to educational placements, service-user placements, attendance arrangements, locations served, term dates, operating hours or other service delivery requirements affecting transport provision.

Changes in demand for transport services, including increases or reductions in service volumes, routes, journeys, passengers or geographical coverage.

Road network changes, highway works, traffic management measures, road closures, access restrictions or other transport infrastructure changes requiring amendments to routes, journey times or collection arrangements.

Changes to applicable legislation, statutory guidance, licensing requirements, safeguarding requirements, health and safety requirements, data protection obligations or transport regulations affecting the operation of the services.

The introduction of new operational, environmental, accessibility, technology or vehicle compliance requirements necessary to ensure the continued safe, effective and lawful delivery of the services.

Changes to funding arrangements, policy objectives, organisational structures or statutory duties impacting the scope, volume or delivery of the services.

Severe weather events, emergency planning requirements, public health incidents or other operational circumstances requiring temporary or permanent adjustments to service delivery arrangements.

Changes required to accommodate the periodic reopening, refresh, award, onboarding or management of suppliers admitted to the Open Framework in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023.

The Authority reserves the right, where permitted under the Procurement Act 2023 and any applicable regulations, guidance or statutory instruments, to amend, modify, vary, supplement, extend, novate, replace, reduce, increase, suspend, transfer or otherwise change the Open Framework Agreement, any Route Service Agreement, any Call-Off Contract and any associated procurement or contract documentation during their respective terms.

Such modifications may be implemented through any modification mechanism expressly provided for within the procurement documents, Framework Agreement, Route Service Agreements, Call-Off Contracts or associated contract documents, or otherwise where permitted by law.

The Authority reserves the right to make modifications arising from, including but not limited to, changes in operational requirements, service delivery requirements, service-user needs, passenger demand, legislation, statutory guidance, funding arrangements, policy, organisational structures, systems, technology, contract management requirements or any other circumstance giving rise to a lawful contract modification.

Any modification shall be undertaken in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023 and any other applicable legal requirements.

How it was run

Official notice
Run through: portal not identified
Electronic submission allowedLanguage: EN
Appointment period ends
9 Oct 2026, 19:00 BST
Clarification deadline
23 Sept 2026, 23:59 BST
Submission channel
Official e-sourcing portal
Electronic submission
Allowed
Accepted languages
en
Detailed submission instructions & authority contactsFrom official release

Bidders must register on the ADAM eProcurement System to access the procurement documents and submit a response. To register click on the link below.

www.theaccessgroup.com/en-gb/health-social-… ↗

Timeline

21 Aug 2026 → 1 Dec 2026 · 9 dates
  1. Planning notice published64 days ago
    21 Aug 2026, 14:44 BST
  2. Market engagement58 days ago
    27 Aug 2026, 23:59 BST

    Providers currently operating under the existing Passenger Transport DPS have been informed of the Council's intention to re-procure these services. This UK2 Preliminary Market Engagement Notice constitutes the Council's market engagement activity and is published to raise awareness of the forthcoming opportunity and provide all interested suppliers with an opportunity to submit comments and clarification questions.

    No further market engagement events are planned. Suppliers may submit comments and clarification questions via email to [email protected] by the deadline stated in this notice. Responses may be shared with all interested suppliers to ensure transparency and equal access to information.

    Participation in this engagement is voluntary and will not be a condition of participation in any subsequent procurement process. The Council may use feedback received to inform the procurement strategy and tender documentation and reserves the right to amend its requirements and procurement approach accordingly.

    Please see below clarification questions and responses received from providers after publication of this notice:

    1. How can we participate in the preliminary market engagement process.

    The published UK2 Preliminary Market Engagement Notice constitutes the Council's market engagement activity. Interested suppliers may participate by reviewing the information provided in this notice and submitting any comments or clarification questions via email to [email protected] by the engagement deadline of 27 August 2026. No further market engagement events are planned. Participation is voluntary and is not a requirement for participation in the subsequent procurement process.

    1. Whether there is a supplier questionnaire, expression of interest form or supplier engagement event that we should complete or attend.

    No. However, your expression of interest has been noted, and you will receive a confirmation email once the tender has been published and is live.

    1. When the formal procurement for the School and Special Transport Open Framework is expected to be published.

    As per the notice beginning of September 2026.

    1. Which procurement portal will be used for the formal tender.

    As per the notice ADAM platform.

    1. Whether suppliers who express an interest at this stage will be notified once the framework opens for applications.

    Yes. All suppliers who register their interest during this stage will be notified by email when the framework opens for applications and the tender notice is published.

    1. Whether there are any specific licensing, vehicle, driver, passenger assistant, DBS, safeguarding or training requirements that prospective suppliers should begin preparing for in advance.

    Licensing requirements will vary depending on the vehicle type; however, all Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) Operator Licences and Hackney Carriage Driver Licences must be issued by Bedford Borough Council, while Public Service Vehicle (PSV) Licences must be issued within the East of England region. Passenger Assistants will be required to hold PATS training delivered by a Community Transport Association-approved provider. Safeguarding training must be completed through BlueLight. In addition, all drivers and Passenger Assistants will be required to obtain a Bedford Borough Council Transport Team badge, which involves providing the necessary documentation and successfully completing an English language assessment.

    1. Will suppliers be required to already hold a valid Bedford Borough Council Private Hire Operator Licence at the point of submitting their tender/application to the framework, or would an operator licence application that is already in progress be acceptable pending approval?

    If you have a current operators licence you can upload and we have assurance from our Licensing team that an application has been submitted then we can accept that to join the framework, with the condition that a BBC licence would be in place before you could win/start any call-offs.

  3. Next notice expected50 days ago
    4 Sept 2026, 23:59 BST
  4. Tender notice published45 days ago
    9 Sept 2026, 09:39 BST
  5. Clarification questions by31 days ago
    23 Sept 2026, 23:59 BST
  6. Latest notice published19 days ago
    5 Oct 2026, 08:21 BST
  7. Admission / appointment period ends15 days ago · period end, not a bid countdown
    9 Oct 2026, 19:00 BST
  8. Today
    24 Oct 2026
  9. Award decision expected byin 32 days
    25 Nov 2026, 23:59 GMT
  10. Contract startsin 37 days
    1 Dec 2026

Notice history

9 events · 4 releases on Find a Tender · since 21 Aug 2026
  1. Preliminary market engagement notice published
    21 Aug 2026, 14:44 BST
    UK2
  2. Preliminary market engagement notice published
    28 Aug 2026, 09:17 BST
    UK2
  3. Tender notice published
    9 Sept 2026, 09:39 BST
    UK4
  4. Published value updated to £48,000,000
    9 Sept 2026, 09:39 BST
    was £0
  5. Status changed to active
    9 Sept 2026, 09:39 BST
  6. Procurement method changed
    9 Sept 2026, 09:39 BST
  7. Deadline published: 5 Oct 2026, 13:00 BST
    9 Sept 2026, 09:39 BST
  8. Tender notice published
    5 Oct 2026, 08:21 BST
    UK4
  9. Deadline moved to 9 Oct 2026, 19:00 BST
    5 Oct 2026, 08:21 BST
    +4 days · was 5 Oct 2026, 13:00 BST
Published amendments (2)

This notice has been amended to include clarifications and responses to queries received from interested providers following publication of the original notice. The additional information is provided to ensure transparency and equal access to information for all potential applicants. No other substantive changes have been made unless otherwise stated within this amendment. Please see below the Q&A…

The tender submission deadline has been changed to 9 October 2026 at 7pm.

Routine re-releases (4)
  • 2026-08: 1 release · 21 Aug 2026

Contracting authority & participating public bodies

Bedford Borough Council

Contracting authorityPublic authority - sub-central government GB-PPON: PLCV-4616-VTHL Borough Hall, Cauldwell Street, Bedford, East of England, MK42 9APContact email

Official documents & specifications (4)

Official links; attachments are not copied

Notices published for this procedure