The UK's Environment Agency (EA) and Surrey County Council have initiated the next stage in finding a construction partner to deliver the River Thames Scheme (RTS) in the UK.
The entities are calling for potential candidates to complete a selection questionnaire to assess their skills, experience, and suitability for the flood alleviation project.
The £300m ($381.15m) RTS aims to shortlist four to six candidates for an invitation to tender after the questionnaire process.
Following an evaluation of these initial tender responses, up to three tenderers will advance to the negotiation stage.
The contract is set to be awarded in 2025. The project includes creating more than five miles of new flood channels and improving existing river structures to reduce flooding risks.
The RTS will be designed to protect more than 11,000 homes and 1,600 businesses from flooding, a growing concern attributed to climate change.
The construction will span from Teddington in Greater London to Egham in Surrey.
The chosen construction partner will be responsible for building two sections of the flood alleviation channel and other works.
Works will also involve increasing the flow capacity of existing weirs, utility diversion, new bridges, and the demolition of residential properties to make way for the Runnymede channel.
Earthworks will include excavation, material management, and appropriate disposal.
Surrey County Council Environment cabinet member and councillor Marisa Heath said: “The scheme will be transformational to our residents, providing vital flood risk reduction while also helping to enhance quality of life, boosting biodiversity and fostering economic growth.
“Throughout the length of the scheme, there will be many opportunities for a range of suppliers and we encourage local businesses to get involved.”
The RTS will require a development consent order before construction can commence.
A six-week statutory consultation began on 22 January 2024, with extensive engagement planned with residents, stakeholders, and communities along the scheme's route, including in-person and virtual events.
