Midlands Trail Network - Wayfinding and Interpretation

AI-generated analysis of the documents. Check the official notice and any amendments for current submission details.

1. At a glance

2. Scope of Work

The tender involves the supply and installation of wayfinding and interpretative signage for the Midlands Trail Network. The project spans several counties and requires a comprehensive approach to design, fabrication, and installation.

• Prototyping and Approvals: Manufacture representative prototypes for lecterns, safety signage, and thematic experience blades. Conduct Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) to obtain sign-off from the Contracting Authority.
• Art Working and Image Licensing: Develop bilingual, accessible artwork according to agreed graphic principles. Secure necessary font and image licenses and provide translation certification.
• Fabrication and Finishes: Use exterior-grade panels with anti-graffiti and UV-stable finishes. Construct mild steel structures with tamper-resistant fixings for all scheduled signage.
• Technical Requirements:
• Panels must be made from exterior composite/coated substrates with UV fast inks and anti-graffiti clear coatings.
• Colourways include Equitone Coloura FCM914, FCM939, and FCM911, with physical samples required for approval.
• Typography must use Congenial for titles and Madera for body text, with bilingual layouts adhering to universal design standards.
• Viewing heights must maintain Level 1–3 bands with a minimum of 800 mm to the lowest reading band.
• Incorporate EU JTF, Government of Ireland, and Fáilte Ireland logos and funding statements on applicable elements.
• Delivery Timelines:
• Mobilisation and prototype start in Week 01.
• Prototypes complete by Week 03.
• Prototype review and sign-off by Week 05.
• Phased delivery of items to Westmeath, Longford, and Offaly between Weeks 08 and 16.
• Deliverables:
• Approved shop drawings and artwork proofs.
• Fabricated items per Works Requirements Documents and Pricing Schedule.
• Handover pack including artwork source files, IP licenses, font licenses, image rights, and translation certificates.
• Delivery of fabricated items to BnM workshop in Derrygreenagh, Co. Offaly.

3. Background & buyer context

This procurement is part of Bord na Móna's initiative to enhance the Midlands Trail Network, co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the EU under the Just Transition Fund. Bord na Móna, a semi-state climate solutions company, is transitioning from peat harvesting to renewable energy and community initiatives. The project aligns with Ireland's commitment to generating 80% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The initiative supports local communities and promotes sustainable tourism through improved trail infrastructure.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

• Turnover requirement: Not specified for this tender.
• Insurance:
• Employer's Liability: €13,000,000
• Public/Product Liability: €6,500,000
• Motor Insurance: Required only if using company vehicles on site.
• Certifications: Not specified for this tender.
• Past experience: Not specified for this tender.
• Personnel: Not specified for this tender.
• Geographic / facility constraints: Not specified for this tender.

5. Award criteria & scoring

The tender will be awarded based on the most economically advantageous tender (MEAT) criteria. Specific weights and thresholds are not detailed in the provided documents.

6. Submission requirements

• Method statement / response document: Not specified.
• CVs: Not specified.
• Pricing schedule: Appendix 2, format not specified.
• Case studies: Not specified.
• Declarations: ESPD, Bona Fides, Tax clearance, Conflict of Interest.
• Mandatory site visit: Not applicable.
• Submission portal: eTenders, all documents must be submitted in a compressed zip folder.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

The contract is for a 12-month term with no specified extensions. Payment terms are not detailed but are subject to the contract at Appendix 5. Key performance indicators and service level agreements are implied but not specified. Liquidated damages, termination clauses, IP ownership, and sub-contracting rules are not detailed. A parent-company guarantee or bond is not mentioned.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

The tender requires a high level of insurance coverage, which may limit participation to larger firms. The geographic scope across multiple counties could pose logistical challenges. The requirement for bilingual and accessible artwork may necessitate specialized skills. The phased delivery schedule is tight, with specific weeks allocated for each county, potentially impacting smaller firms' capacity to deliver on time.

10. SME fit assessment

This tender is suitable for firms with experience in signage fabrication and installation, particularly those with the capacity to handle large-scale projects across multiple locations. Firms must have substantial insurance coverage, which may exclude smaller businesses. Consortiums or subcontracting are allowed, which could enable smaller firms to participate. Bid preparation is likely to require several days, given the need for detailed prototypes and artwork. The presence of an incumbent is not specified, but the high insurance requirements suggest a preference for established firms.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename(s): RFT 7269646 - Midlands Trail Network - Wayfinding and Interpretation.pdf
• eTenders CFT ID: Not specified
• Contact email or clarification portal: eTenders messaging facility
• Important attachments:
• Appendix 2 — Pricing Schedule
• Appendix 3 — Tenderer’s Statement
• Appendix 5 — Key Contract Terms and Insurance Requirements