Westmeath Non-National Bridge Rehabilitation Works 2026

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

This tender seeks contractors for the rehabilitation of non-national bridges within County Westmeath. The contract will involve a range of civil engineering works focused on structural repair and maintenance of existing bridge infrastructure. Specific bridge locations identified include Corn Mill Bridge in Annagh and Cornamucklagh Bridge on the R392. Toberaquill Bridge is also listed, with two spans and concrete construction.

The scope of work encompasses, but is not limited to:

• Structural Repairs: Addressing identified damage, including cracking in parapets and spandrels, lamination and rusting of steel beams, and repointing of arch barrels. This includes cutting back to sound concrete to a minimum depth of 25mm behind reinforcement and 50mm beyond visible corrosion.
• Masonry and Concrete Works: Reconstruction of damaged masonry elements, repointing of joints, and repair of concrete structures.
• Parapet and Wall Restoration: Repair or replacement of damaged parapets and external walls, including masonry work.
• Devegetation: Complete devegetation of bridge structures to allow for full inspection and repair.
• Surface and Deck Works: Addressing surface issues, including potential planing of road surfaces on bridge approaches for a more even transition.
• Drainage and Services: Making good of drainage pipes and ensuring services are managed appropriately.
• Access and Egress Improvements: Works to improve access and egress, potentially including the installation of rubbing strips.
• Environmental Considerations: Construction works in environmentally sensitive areas, requiring adherence to specific protocols.
• Site Management: Ensuring the minimum of noise during works and managing traffic and livestock access hazards.
• Health and Safety: Compliance with Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2013, including risk assessments and method statements.

The tender documents specify that stream works to bridges must be completed before 30th September 2026 and agreed with Inland Fisheries Ireland. All works must be completed by 30th October 2026.

3. Background & buyer context

This procurement is initiated by Westmeath County Council to address the ongoing maintenance and rehabilitation needs of its non-national bridge infrastructure. The tender falls under the category of minor building or civil engineering works designed by the employer, utilising the Public Works Contract for such projects. The identified need for rehabilitation is evidenced by recent engineering inspections of specific bridges, such as Corn Mill Bridge and Cornamucklagh Bridge, which indicate "Warning" or "Significant Damage" ratings. The project aligns with the council's responsibility for maintaining public road infrastructure and ensuring the safety and longevity of these critical assets. The procurement process is structured to ensure compliance with public sector tendering regulations.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered:

• Turnover Requirement:
• Minimum average annual turnover of €2,000,000 arising from Bridge Rehabilitation and Bridge Construction over the period specified in the qualification criteria.
• Insurance:
• Public Liability Insurance: Minimum indemnity limit of €6,500,000 for any one event. Maximum excess of €10,000 in respect of property damage only.
• Employer's Liability Insurance: Minimum indemnity limit of €13,000,000 for any one event.
• Professional Indemnity Insurance: Not specified for this tender.
• Certifications:
• Certified membership of Safe-T-Cert may be deemed equivalent for quality assurance purposes.
• ISO 45001:2018 or equivalent for safety management systems.
• Past Experience:
• A minimum of three projects completed in the past 7 years that demonstrate competence in:
• Construction works in or over large bodies of water.
• Construction/Restoration works on Masonry Arch Structures using lime mortar.
• Construction works in areas that are Environmentally sensitive.
• The proposed Contracts Manager must have a minimum of 10 years experience in Civil Engineering works and experience of at least 10 projects of similar type, size, and complexity.
• Personnel:
• Management staff must possess appropriate educational/professional qualifications and experience, with relevant Health and Safety qualifications and training.
• Personnel must possess appropriate educational and professional qualifications and experience, with relevant Health and Safety qualifications and training.
• A minimum of 3 employees must be available to be contacted by the Gardaí and/or the Employer’s Representative, both during and outside normal working hours.
• Geographic / Facility Constraints:
• Not specified for this tender.

5. Award criteria & scoring

The award criteria are not explicitly detailed with scoring percentages in the provided documentation. However, the tender process is based on a "Most Economically Advantageous Tender" (MEAT) principle, implying a balance between quality and price. The selection criteria, detailed in Section 4, are pass/fail. Technical capability, including health and safety competence, demonstrated through past experience, qualifications, and proposed management, will be a significant factor. The final award will likely consider the technical merit of the bid alongside the submitted pricing.

Criterion Weight (%) Sub-criteria