Coombe Way - Kings Tamerton
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
The heart of this tender is net zero
When looking at this contract, it's tempting to focus on the number of homes or the site specifics.
But that's not what LiveWest Homes is really buying.
They're investing in a future-proof development at Kings Tamerton that meets net zero energy standards.
The contract covers the design and build of up to 52 units, ranging from 1 to 4 beds, with a value of £14 million. It's a two-year project, running from March 2027 to March 2029.
Think about the vision, not just the build
LiveWest isn't just looking for bricks and mortar.
They're seeking a contractor who understands the broader vision.
It's about creating sustainable, affordable homes that blend seamlessly into the Plymouth landscape and community.
I'd focus on how your approach aligns with this vision, not just how you lay foundations and erect walls.
Pay attention to what they say
The notice makes it clear they want design and build contractors who can deliver to the planning and design criteria.
It's not just about meeting the specifications.
It's about understanding and implementing the "Employers Requirements" detailed in the documents.
I'd ensure my submission speaks directly to these criteria.
Focus on sustainable practices
Sustainability isn't a tick-box here.
It's central to the entire project.
Evidence of how your previous projects have achieved net zero energy standards will be crucial.
Consider including:
- Case studies of similar projects
- How you've integrated renewable energy sources
- Your approach to reducing carbon footprints
Remember the local impact
Kings Tamerton isn't just a site — it's a community.
Think about the people who will live there and how your build affects them.
What will the development mean for local residents?
How will you ensure minimal disruption?
These are the concerns I'd address in my response.
Evidence always beats promises
I can't stress this enough.
Every bidder will promise to deliver.
But not everyone will prove they can.
Use hard evidence to set yourself apart:
- Testimonials from past clients
- Awards or recognitions for energy-efficient builds
- Data or metrics showing your project's success
Consistency over the whole term
Delivering a project over two years requires more than just a good start.
LiveWest will want reassurance that you can maintain standards throughout.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd look for:
- How you manage staffing and resources over long periods
- Your processes for handling unexpected challenges
- Regular performance reviews and inspections
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
It's not just about building homes.
It's about creating a sustainable community.
Every decision, from materials to methods, should reflect this ethos.
I'd ask myself, "How does this choice impact the residents and the environment?"
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Overlook the importance of net zero energy standards
- Focus solely on the construction process without considering sustainability
- Fail to address LiveWest's specific design and planning criteria
- Lack evidence of previous successful projects
- Ignore the impact on the local community
- Don't provide a strategy for maintaining quality over the contract term
My Final Thoughts
LiveWest Homes is looking for a partner who sees the bigger picture — not just a builder.
This contract is about creating a sustainable, affordable community in Kings Tamerton.
With a £14 million budget over two years, the focus is on quality and sustainability.
A well-crafted written submission, backed by evidence, will be crucial in demonstrating your capability to deliver this vision.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
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Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.