Talacre Boardwalk, viewing platform and access ramp

Flintshire County Council has secured funding to upgrade the existing boardwalk, viewing platform and ramp at Talacre through Wales Coast Path funding as administered by Natural Resources Wales.The current infrastructure is in a state of deterioration and needs replacing. The line currently taken makes the current ramp too steep for all users so needs re-aligning to meet the needs of uses of all abilities. This will mean adhering to guidance in gradient and width to make the ramp accessible for all.The project is on the Wales coast path at Talacre next to the main beach car park.We are seeking to appoint a contractor to:• Liaise with Flintshire Countryside service and ENI throughout the project• Safely close off the work zone for the period of the project.• Dismantle, remove and dispose of the existing infrastructure• Replace the existing section of boardwalk with a 1.5m wide by approx. 55m long boardwalk• Replace the existing viewing platform approx. 9 square meters like for like including safety railing• Design and replace the existing ramp with a new ramp on a different alignment to gain the length in order to reduce the gradient and meet at least the 1:20 regulations for wheelchair users. The current ramp is 20meters long – it is likely that the new ramp with be approx. 90 metres long (this will need to be determined and stated within the design). A landing platform/passing place will be needed at each turn point.• Supply post and rail hand rails along both sides of the rampIt should be noted the works are taking place in a sand dune site, this will need to be considered for both design and build. Although some of the work is replacing existing structures this doesn’t guarantee firm ground so posts may need to be longer/thicker to make them safe and secure.It should also be noted that access to the work site can occasionally be affected by the tide, this is only during periods of very high tide which are known well in advance.Although timber sizes are not specified in the specification, timber suitability will be assessed within the quality section of the scoring. It is expected that any uprights for the project are at least 6 inches thick. The bulk of the timber should be lifted off the ground using sleepers/posts before the runners. All timber must be tantalised/pressure treated and handrails must have a smooth finish, suitable alternatives will be considered. The ramp will need to be none slip due to the nature of the site. Both round and square timbers will be considered.The Contractor will be required to demonstrate that all insurances, health and safety procedures and the risk assessments necessary for the smooth and safe fulfilment of the contract.Timber chosen will need to be named in the quote and should be fit for purpose for both design and location.The project is subject to grant funding which has been confirmed, pending the final award letter.The work falls within the Gronant Dunes and Talacre Warren Site of Special Scientific Interest designated due to special interest for botanical, entomological and ornithological reasons and is therefore subject to consent from Natural Resources Wales. The impact of the work on the surrounding environment must be minimised with access routes and work areas agreed in advanced. Works may not be able to start until early 2023 – this should be considered when quoting as all prices quoted must hold until project completion / February 2023.The land is owned by ENI who will need to approve the final work programme prior to work starting on site.All works are due to be completed by February 2023.The site is open to the public and contractors will need to operate safe working practices and include suitable signage. A risk assessment will be required prior to the work commencing.The contractor is responsible for security of their equipment during the works.