Original Tender Description
Bathampton Parish Council is seeking to appoint an experienced and suitably qualified playground contractor to remove existing playground equipment and surfacing and to design, supply, deliver and install a new children's playground, including site preparation, removal of existing surface, and installation of new safety surfacing. The project aims to create a safer, more inclusive, and engaging play space that meets the standards of the Association of Play Industries (API). This includes inclusive play equipment for a range of age groups, new safety-compliant surfacing, seating, access improvements, and compliance with relevant British Standards. Scope of Works: (see attached tender Specification) Removal and safe disposal of existing playground equipment and surfacing. 'No surface overlay'. Where appropriate suppliers should explore opportunities to recycle or refurbish existing equipment. Design and installation of new play equipment catering to a range of ages incorporating inclusive and accessible play elements. A key requirement is the inclusion of equipment specifically designed for older children (over 7 years of age), Offering challenging features such as climbing structures that provide social play and physical engagement, while limiting access to younger children for safety. In addition, there should be equipment that enables younger children (pre school) to play safely and independently, encouraging self-development and self-confidence. A multi play structure featuring a bridge and slide, which is popular with current playground users is highly desirable and something that was noted in the Community survey. The Survey with the community noted the wish to retain some of the well-loved traditional features of the current playground, specifically noting the older children's swings, basket swing, zip -wire and toddler swings. The roundabout and see-saw are well used amongst all age groups. We are keen to see proposals that incorporate modernised versions of these classics, alongside new, innovative and engaging play equipment. The design should include a zipwire at least the length of the existing one. If the budget does not permit a full replacement, the quote should include the replacing of the ramp, repainting of the structure and installing new safety surfacing (grass matting) underneath. Older Children (7+): There was strong demand in the survey for challenging equipment such as monkey bars, social climbing structures, and potentially a high slide incorporated into a play structure. Equipment should promote physical activity and social interaction while limiting access to younger children for safety. Pre-School Children (Under 5): There is demand for safer, more accessible equipment that supports independent play. The community survey noted preference for an improved bridge and slide multi play structure. The current toddler bridge and slide unit was frequently cited as unsafe due to ladder spacing and shared use by older children. Our preference is to have no springers. Install new playground surfacing that complies with safety standards. Wet pour surfacing is preferred for its durability and low maintenance. 'No overlay please and to include new base'. Coloured or flecked finishes are desirable to compliment the green setting. Sections of Dura Lawn may also be considered as well as colourful designs around the younger children's play equipment for visual appeal. Ideally, the wet pour should form one continuous pad to minimise edges, while maintaining natural grass around the perimeter. The Contractor is responsible for any necessary site preparation, levelling, drainage, and base construction to ensure compliant installation of surfacing and equipment. The proposed design should exclude trampolines, sand pits, tunnels and other features that require frequent or intensive maintenance. Proposed equipment should prioritise durability, ease of upkeep and long-term resilience, ensuring the Playground remains safe, functional and cost-effective over time. To provide inclusive, fun and colourful equipment where possible to enhance visual appeal. Provision of additional seating is essential, ideally the majority to be on hard standing areas and something that was a noted as being a key priority by the community. This should include a mix of benches (we currently have three) and picnic tables, with some designed to be fully accessible for people with limited mobility or using wheelchairs. Consideration should also be given to incorporating fun, casual, child-friendly seating that is easily accessible for children during play. Ensure compliance with relevant British Standards for playground equipment and safety surfaces (e.g. BS EN 1176, BS EN 1177). Please include details of all warranties and guarantees with your quote. To include improved access from the pavement to the pedestrian entrance of the playground. This currently grassed section should be replaced with a more accessible, durable and sympathetic surface to ensure safe and inclusive entry for all users. To include all preliminaries e.g. fencing, storage, welfare and post installation inspection and secure boundaries where required. Contractors must hold public liability insurance of at least £5 million and employers' liability insurance of at least £10 million. Quotes to include delivery. Optional: use of sustainable materials and eco-conscious solutions. Community Consultation: Final designs will be selected by BPC and will be shared with the Community for feedback and input. If chosen, suppliers may be required to provide visual design materials suitable for public display such as posters, boards. The tender may include some substitution / specified changes after the receipt of quotes. The Council intends to select designs for public consultation. As a result, minor adjustments to the equipment selection or positioning may be required. Suppliers should allow in their pricing for minor changes to equipment selection or positioning following public consultation, within the overall contract budget. Any changes will be agreed with the chosen supplier prior to the start of the works. Location of Works: Bathampton Village Playground, Bathampton, Bath, Holcombe Lane. Contractors can visit the site 24/7 to fully understand the project, context, access and grounds. Design plan of the existing Playground provided for reference (included in tender doc attached). How to Apply: Please submit your tender electronically to bathamptonparishclerk@gmail.com with subject line: Bathampton Playground Redevelopment Tender Submission. Submissions must include: Design proposals (with visuals) Itemised quote (inc. VAT) Proposed timescales Evidence of relevant experience References from at least two recent similar projects Health & Safety and insurance documentation Additional Information: A community consultation will be undertaken. The Parish Council is committed to further involving residents throughout the final design and planning stages. Tenderers may be asked to attend a public meeting or present final designs to the Council.