Scottish Canals seeking architects for projects

The government body managing canals throughout the North is looking for architects for developments throughout Scotland.

Scottish Canals published a tender document to procure work worth up to £2.6 million across its canal network.

Scottish Canals is the branch of the Scottish Government responsible for managing more than 137 miles of inland waterways. It has responsibility for the Caledonian Canal, several locks on Loch Ness, Crinan, Forth and Clyde, Monkland and Union Canals.

Scottish Canals has invested in projects such as the Kelpies, the largest equine structure in the world, and the Falkirk Wheel on canal land. These projects have rejuvenated tourism in the Falkirk area.

In a document published on Public Contracts Scotland, the organisation said it was looking for partner organisations to provide a range of architecture and design services to aid the organisation deliver a number of projects in the operational, commercial, and regeneration and development work of the organisation. In its brief, Scottish Canals said it was looking for: “Up to eight teams will be chosen for the five-year framework which covers a range of ‘operational, commercial and regeneration’ projects across the organisation’s 1,500ha estate.”

The framework is divided into two lots with the first covering medium and high-value projects worth an estimated £2.25 million in total fees, and the second covering low-value projects worth around £250,000.

The brief continued: “We are looking for partner organisations to provide a range of architecture and design services to aid the organisation (in delivering) a number of projects in the operational, commercial, and regeneration and development work of the organisation.

‘The unique nature of the canal network in Scotland includes many heritage assets, scheduled ancient monuments, water control and containment installations, as well as unique structures such as the Falkirk Wheel.

“A longer framework period allows for time for all parties to gain a better understanding of these assets and provide better value for money through the framework.”

It is understood bids for the work will be evaluated 70% on quality and 30% on cost.

The deadline for applications is midday on November 30.

“The canal network includes many heritage assets