MD26098 - Plan Mid Devon Green Infrastructure Strategy
A practical guide to understanding what Mid Devon District Council really wants and how to build a winning response.
Don't underestimate the power of integration
This isn't just about green infrastructure.
It's about threading that infrastructure into the fabric of Mid Devon's growth plans.
The Council is looking for a strategy that not only assesses the current green infrastructure but also integrates it with the district's ambitious housing targets and environmental priorities.
You're not just mapping green spaces.
You're shaping how these spaces will support and enhance community growth over the next 20 years.
The contract covers the creation of a comprehensive Green Infrastructure Strategy to guide spatial strategy decisions, site assessments and development management for the new Local Plan.
Think about the future users
The end users of your strategy are not just Council officers.
They're the communities of Mid Devon.
The Strategy needs to be accessible and useful to parish councils, local groups and future authorities after the Local Government Reorganisation.
I'd be focusing on how the Strategy can be a practical tool for these diverse stakeholders, ensuring it speaks to their needs and capacities.
Evidence always beats promises
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that bidders often made lots of promises.
Few backed them up with evidence.
For this tender, I'd gather evidence of past successes in delivering similar strategies.
- Examples of seamless integration of green infrastructure with local plans
- Demonstrations of successful stakeholder engagement
- Metrics showing improved biodiversity or community access to nature
- Testimonials from previous clients about the usability of your strategies
Pay attention to what they say
Mid Devon District Council is clear about its priorities.
They're looking for "timely delivery", "transparent methodology" and "high-quality editable GIS/data outputs".
These aren't just buzzwords.
They are the criteria on which your submission will be judged.
I'd ensure my proposal outlines a clear timeline, explains my methodology step-by-step and provides examples of past GIS work that are relevant and innovative.
Remember the weight of quality
With the award being based on 70% quality and 30% price, your written submission carries significant weight.
This isn't just about being the cheapest.
The Council is investing in a robust evidence base that will stand the test of time.
So, I'd be focusing on demonstrating the quality and reliability of my service, not just the cost.
Show how you'll make life easier for the Council
Every project creates work for the client.
The best consultants reduce that workload.
In your proposal, I'd be showing how your approach will streamline processes for the Council and ensure smooth transitions, especially with the upcoming Local Government Reorganisation.
The role of technology
The Council is purchasing consultancy services that include "editable GIS and mapping package with metadata".
This isn't just about delivering a report.
It's about providing a dynamic tool that can adapt to future needs.
I'd be highlighting my experience and capabilities in delivering high-quality GIS solutions that are not only accurate but also user-friendly and adaptable.
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
This isn't just a planning exercise.
It's about shaping the future of Mid Devon.
Every recommendation, every map and every piece of data needs to serve the wider vision of sustainable growth and community well-being.
I'd test each element of my submission by asking, "How does this help Mid Devon grow sustainably?"
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Overlook the importance of integrating green infrastructure with housing and growth plans
- Fail to provide evidence of past successes
- Neglect the needs of future users and stakeholders
- Ignore the Council's emphasis on transparency and quality
- Underestimate the importance of providing high-quality GIS outputs
- Focus solely on price rather than the quality of service
- Miss clear timelines and detailed methodology explanations
- Lack understanding of the importance of Local Government Reorganisation readiness
My Final Thoughts
Mid Devon District Council is looking for more than just a plan.
They want a strategy that integrates seamlessly into their vision for the future.
With a budget of £25,000 and a contract duration from November 2026 to June 2027, every part of your proposal must reflect the quality they're prioritising.
Seventy percent of the award decision is based on quality, which means your written submission is crucial.
Focus on evidence, integration and future-readiness.
That's what will set you apart.
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.