Minsmere RSPB: Access for all footpath & new bridge

The aim of the project is to improve access to the Minsmere East Hide for visitors with impaired mobility. A fully accessible path will be constructed to connect the North Wall trail to the extended East Hide inside the existing sea defence. The path will create an aesthetically pleasing access route with carefully spaced bench seating with views over the adjacent Scrape. A ramp will be constructed to provide access from the North Wall, ensuring that the North Wall's function as a flood defence is unimpaired. A low-level path or boardwalk will then follow the line of the sea defence to the East Hide. This will involve creating a new bridge over the Scotts Hall Drain and meeting the apron of the hide so that wheelchair access is maintained.

The ramp from the North Wall will be created with granite-filled gabions and a surfaced path. The path from the base of the ramp has been specified similarly, but we would be keen to consider a boardwalk solution, preferably using recycled plastic boards for the decking and structure.

Details of how to apply in Tender document attached

Additional information: The Initial Tender submission shall comprise the following:

• a.Brief synopsis of relevant experience of similar works and working on sensitive sites
• b.Outline of resources and timescales for mobilization and completion of works
• c.Costs for the three main elements:
• Ramp
• Bridge
• Path

including information on prelims and how OHP will be dealt with.

The Contractor shall provide information on the approaches proposed to deliver the sections of path and the bridge, alongside outline costings and timetables for their delivery and the construction of the ramp from the North Wall, which must be to the specification provided, since the North Wall is a Flood Defence Structure.

The final Contract following a Second Stage Tender is to be the NEC 3 Engineering and Construction Short Contract with the Contract Data as detailed in Appendix 1 though this may be varied in agreement with the selected contractor.