Reconstruction of Breakwater at Mermaid Beach, Folkestone
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
Think about more than just concrete
Folkestone and Hythe District Council is looking for a partner who can deliver more than just construction work.
They're looking for someone who understands the importance of restoring the breakwater at Mermaid Beach both functionally and aesthetically.
This isn't just about placing precast concrete units back.
It's about ensuring the beach remains a safe, accessible and attractive location for visitors.
The contract involves recovering, repairing and reinstating six 32-tonne precast concrete walkway units.
That might sound straightforward.
But the Council is really asking for a company that can handle marine conditions, manage logistical challenges and maintain public safety throughout the project.
Pay attention to what they say
The Council has opted for a one-stage 'open' procedure.
That tells me they want a straightforward, transparent process.
They’re interested in direct, clear proposals that can demonstrate capability and reliability without layers of complexity.
They've highlighted the possibility of extending the contract by up to one month.
This indicates they value flexibility and want a contractor who can adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
I'd emphasise my ability to manage timelines effectively while remaining adaptable.
Remember the local community
Mermaid Beach isn't just a construction site.
It's a part of the community.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd be looking for evidence that the contractor respects the local area and its people.
Consider how your work will affect beach visitors.
Think about noise, access and safety during the project.
These are concerns for the Council and the local community.
Show that you've considered these factors in your planning.
Explain your approach to marine challenges
Working at the beach presents unique challenges.
The tides, weather conditions and marine environment all play a role in how you’ll execute the project.
Most bidders will gloss over this.
But if I were writing this tender, I'd detail how I plan to manage these elements.
- How will you ensure safety during high tides?
- What’s your plan for unexpected weather changes?
- How will you protect marine life and minimise environmental impact?
These are the details that will set your proposal apart.
Evidence always beats promises
The Council will want to know that you can deliver on your promises.
Evidence is crucial.
If you've successfully completed similar marine projects, now is the time to showcase that.
- Case studies or project summaries from relevant past work
- Testimonials from previous clients
- Certifications or accreditations related to marine construction
- Photos or videos of past projects in similar environments
The more concrete evidence you provide, the more confidence the Council will have in your abilities.
Don't underestimate one word in the title
"Reconstruction" is the key word here.
This isn't about building from scratch.
It's about restoring what's already there.
The Council will be looking for a contractor who can appreciate the existing structure and enhance it, not just replace it.
Show that you understand the history and current state of the breakwater.
Explain how your work will preserve its integrity while improving its function.
Show how you'll make life easier for the Council
Every project creates work for the client.
The best contractors reduce that workload.
If I were writing this tender, I'd be explaining how my management processes make life easier for the Council officers.
- Regular updates and clear communication channels
- Proactive problem-solving and quick response times
- Detailed project management plans
These are all elements that can reassure the Council that the project will run smoothly.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Ignore the impact on the local community and environment
- Fail to address the specific challenges of marine construction
- Provide generic solutions without tailoring to this project
- Lack evidence of similar past work in marine environments
- Overlook the importance of flexibility in timeline management
- Neglect to mention how they will maintain safety standards during construction
My Final Thoughts
The District Council of Folkestone and Hythe is looking for more than just a contractor.
They want a partner who understands the significance of Mermaid Beach and can manage the complexities of marine construction.
With a contract value of £175,000 and a potential extension built into the term, they’re looking for reliability and adaptability.
Quality is paramount.
Your written submission should reflect that, focusing on the specifics of how you’ll deliver excellence in this unique environment.
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.