Proposed MUGA Artificial Surface Astroturf Pitch and Floodlighting at Ballinamore Sports Complex, Park Road, Ballinamore, Co. Leitrim N41R522

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 contract involves the construction of a multi-purpose artificial turf pitch, including fencing, netting, floodlighting, and associated site works at the Ballinamore Sports Complex. The project is expected to be completed within 8 weeks from the commencement date in July 2026.

The contractor's day-to-day activities will include:

• Site Preparation: Clearing and grading the site to ensure a suitable foundation for the pitch.
• Installation of Artificial Turf: Laying a 3G pitch with 60mm monofilament artificial grass, incorporating rubber crumb infill, which is designed to meet specific performance standards.
• Fencing and Netting: Erecting fencing around the pitch to ensure safety and security, as well as netting to prevent balls from leaving the playing area.
• Floodlighting Installation: Installing floodlights to ensure the pitch can be used during evening hours, complying with relevant safety and performance standards.
• Health and Safety Compliance: Adhering to the Preliminary Health and Safety Plan throughout the construction process.
• Quality Assurance: Ensuring all materials and workmanship meet the specifications outlined in the Architects Specification (Volume A).

The contractor will also be responsible for coordinating with the Project Supervisor for Design Process (PSDP) and the Project Supervisor for Construction Stage (PSCS) to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.

3. Background & buyer context

This procurement is initiated by Leitrim County Council to enhance local sports facilities, aligning with government initiatives to promote physical activity and community engagement. The project is part of a broader strategy to improve recreational infrastructure in the region. The council aims to provide a modern facility that meets the needs of various sports and community events. There is no mention of an incumbent contractor for this project.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following eligibility and selection criteria:

• Turnover requirement: Minimum average annual turnover of €1.5 million for the last three financial years.
• Insurance:
• Public Liability: €6.5 million
• Employer's Liability: €13 million
• Professional Indemnity: €1 million
• Certifications: Must hold relevant certifications such as Safe-T-Cert and be registered with the Construction Contracts Register.
• Past experience: Minimum of 3 comparable projects completed in the last 7 years, each with a value of at least €500,000.
• Personnel: At least one project manager with a minimum of 5 years' experience in managing similar projects.
• Geographic constraints: Bidders must be based within 50 km of Ballinamore.

5. Award criteria & scoring

Bids will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

There are no minimum scoring thresholds specified for individual criteria, but overall scoring will determine the most economically advantageous tender.

6. Submission requirements

Bidders must submit the following documents:

• Method statement: A response document following the provided template, with a maximum of 20 pages.
• CVs: Detailed CVs for key personnel, limited to 2 pages each.
• Pricing schedule: Completed Volume C - Pricing Document in a separate envelope.
• Case studies: At least 3 case studies of similar projects, including descriptions and values.
• Declarations: Completed ESPD, tax clearance certificate, and conflict of interest declaration.
• Mandatory site visit: A site visit is not specified but may be arranged upon request.
• Submission portal: Tenders must be submitted online via eTenders by the deadline.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

Key contract terms include:

• Term and extensions: The contract duration is fixed at 8 weeks from the start date, with no specified extensions.
• Payment terms: Payments will be made on a fixed price lump sum basis upon completion of milestones.
• Key SLAs/KPIs: Timely completion of the project within the specified 8-week timeframe.
• Liquidated damages: Penalties may apply for delays beyond the agreed completion date.
• Termination clauses: The council reserves the right to terminate the contract for non-compliance with health and safety regulations.
• IP ownership: All intellectual property developed during the project will remain with Leitrim County Council.
• Sub-contracting rules: Sub-contracting is permitted but must be disclosed and approved by the council.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

Potential risks and concerns include:

• Tight timeline: The requirement to complete the project within 8 weeks may pose challenges, particularly if unforeseen delays occur.
• Insurance requirements: The high levels of insurance coverage required may limit participation from smaller firms.
• Geographic constraints: The requirement for bidders to be located within 50 km of Ballinamore may restrict competition.
• No incumbent: The absence of an incumbent contractor may lead to uncertainty regarding project expectations and standards.

10. SME fit assessment

This tender is suitable for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with experience in sports facility construction. Viable bidders should have:

• A proven track record in similar projects, particularly in constructing artificial turf pitches.
• The capacity to meet insurance and turnover requirements.
• The ability to manage the project within the specified timeline.

Consortiums or subcontracting arrangements are allowed, which may enable smaller firms to participate. Bid preparation is estimated to require approximately 10-15 days, considering the documentation and compliance requirements. The presence of a fixed price contract and the absence of an incumbent may signal a fair opportunity for new entrants.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename: Invitation letter.pdf
• eTenders CFT ID: not specified
• Contact email: not specified
• Important attachments:
• Volume A – Works Requirements
• Volume B – Form of Tender and Schedule
• Volume C – Pricing Document