Framework for the Drilling and Testing of Boreholes in former Mining Areas

Descriptions

The Mining Remediation Authority currently has the capacity to treat 220 billion litres of mine water every year. Treating mine water has directly protected and improved over 350km of rivers, protects several important regional aquifers, enhances biodiversity and provides local amenity land. Our mine water treatment prevents nearly 4000 tonnes of iron solids iron solids and other pollutants entering watercourses or aquifers. Last year 97% of the iron solid waste was recycled or reused. In partnership with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the Environment Agency (EA), Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and Natural Resources Wales (NRW), the Mining Remediation Authority delivers a program of mine water treatment and monitoring across England, Scotland and Wales, ensuring that the mine water is effectively treated before entering natural watercourses. Boreholes are used to improve our understanding of mine water. Our boreholes provide critical water level and quality monitoring data used to assess potential risks to aquifers and surface water bodies. These assessments form the basis of our mine water management strategies with abstraction from boreholes often being key to mine water level control. The Mining Remediation Authority requires a framework agreement for the provision of services relating to the construction and testing of boreholes in former mining areas. The services are anticipated to include borehole drilling, construction, testing, maintenance, cleaning, rehabilitation, technical support and associated works/services.

Engagement

A prior information notice was published on the 10th of February under reference: 2025/S 000-004459 This Prior information notice included a link to an online Expression of interest portal where organisations could register for updates. An online engagement session was held on the 12th of March. This engagement was conducted via presentation. The scope of the engagement included all the proposed Lots as well as approximate values and potential KPI. Contracting arrangements were explored as well as the route to market via a Competitive Flexible Procedure.