Replacement Fencing – Harris Pony Paddock – Isle of Rum

Description

NatureScot is looking for an experienced fencing contractor to replace 627m of existing fencing on the Isle of Rum. The fencing surrounds a paddock that will enclose Highland ponies and occasionally Highland cattle. The paddock is in the South West of the island and is approximately 7 miles along a rough 4 x 4 track from where the ferry arrives. The contract value is less than GBP50,000 so this is not considered a 'regulated procurement' as set out in the Procurement Reform (Scotland) Act 2014. It is being advertised to reach a wider potential field of candidates. Full details are set out in the Statement of Requirements document attached to this notice. Bidders are asked to ensure they allow sufficient time to upload their tender documents by the stated deadline of 09:00 hours on 11th July 2025 Lot 1: You are required to complete fencing of a large pony paddock (534m perimeter with internal divide of length 93m) using horse netting and an electrified top line to make it safe and secure for Highland ponies while preventing pressure on the fence from both inside and outside. The paddock has been previously deer fenced and the majority of fencing is still in place and is required to be removed. Existing wooden fence posts and strainers are more than 15 years old and are rotten and loose. The majority of posts to be removed are wooden deer posts but there are also a few metal posts drilled into rock that could remain in place and be re-used. The site of the paddock is rocky in places with little soil depth and therefore a rock drill may be required. Use of metal posts should be considered. The fence line is on the site of an old settlement that is designated a scheduled monument. NatureScot is in the process of obtaining scheduled monument consent to allow the works to proceed. The fence design should be stock height with a distance of 5m between fence posts with horse safe netting and an electrified top wire. NatureScot has 500m of tornado horse netting in stock that can be used. 4 metal gates are required to be put in place where indicated by a red line on the maps below. NatureScot already has these gates in stock. The paddock that requires fenced is approx.7 miles from where the ferry arrives and access is along a rough 4x4 track (travel time approx. 30mins). The paddock is beside the vehicle track. Vehicles and trailers must be booked on the ferry in advance. It is recommended that accommodation on Rum is booked in advance, there are limited accommodation options on island including a bunkhouse and a B&B. The contract must be completed by 20th October 2025.