Framework for Applied Science Technology Engineering Requirements (FASTER)

Met Office intends to re-open FASTER twice during the 8-year (maximum) life of the framework which is a new option available under PA23. FASTER will be re-opened within the first 3-year period in line with the indicative timetable below: Establishment of FASTER 1st April 2026 FASTER is reopened for the first time 1st September 2028 FASTER stage 2 Goes Live 1st April 2029 FASTER is reopened for the second time 1st September 2031 FASTER stage 3 Goes Live 1 April 2032 Framework Ceases 31 March 2034 **Noting that the framework re-opening procurement process time is estimated to be approx. 6 months. The Open Framework will operate as follows: Suppliers who are already on the Framework 1. A supplier on the existing framework will not be required to submit a new bid on the re-opening of the procurement (unless it opts to do so). However the supplier will be required to confirm that the original bid submitted is still valid including the PSQ and ITT information (in line with s.22 of the Act). If not, valid suppliers will be required to update and resubmit the relevant information for review at each Framework opening stage. 2. A supplier may submit a new bid for any of the Framework Lots it is not already on, which will be assessed with the other bids when the Framework re-opens. 3. A supplier can elect to be removed from existing Lots or the existing framework entirely. 4. A supplier has the opportunity to re-submit hourly rates if they want to remain on the framework, these will be evaluated in the same way as the process of gaining a place on the FASTER framework and the previous technical scores will be used unless a new bid is submitted. PQP will apply and a score of 6 or less will ensure the supplier remains on the framework. New Suppliers to the Framework If early market engagement is deemed appropriate a PME notice will be issued. A tender notice (UK:4) will be issued each time the Framework is opened (twice in the life of FASTER) and this will be linked to the unique identifier (UI) used in the Procurement of the original FASTER Framework within the Central Digital Platform (CPD). Any new bids will be evaluated on the same basis as the original PSQ and Evaluation criteria (Technical, Commercial and Social Value) the same weightings and questions will apply. It is not anticipated that any changes to the evaluation criteria will be required in line with PA23 which states that there should be no substantial amendments to the award criteria. Debarment checks will also be required in line with the original process. FASTER will be live throughout any opening process. Once the re-opening process has been completed and awarded the second stage of FASTER will commence.