RBKC's £80m Highways Contracts: What You Need to Know

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC) is seeking specialist contractors for its highways maintenance needs. Valued at £80 million, these contracts span five years, starting in April 2025. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key details.

What Happened

RBKC is issuing a tender for contractors to maintain over 188km of carriageways, 380km of footways, five bridges (including two Thames crossings), and 12,000 streetlights. The contracts are divided into three specific areas:

• Lot 1: Highways drainage repairs and installations.

• Lot 2: Maintenance and repairs for highways structures, including bridges and walls.

• Lot 3: General highway maintenance and projects, covering footways, street lighting, road markings, and sustainable transport initiatives.

These contracts aim to streamline RBKC’s existing service provision for its infrastructure.

Why It Matters

The Council has a statutory duty to maintain public highways, ensuring the safety and functionality of vital transport networks within its boundaries. These contracts will also support the council’s sustainability goals through new drainage systems and electric vehicle charge points.

By the Numbers

• Total Value: £80 million

• Duration: 5 years (with a potential 3-year extension)

• Deadline: Bids must be submitted by 11^th October 2024.

How They’re Doing It

Contractors can bid on one or more of the three contract Lots, depending on their expertise. The work involves:

• Lot 1: Repairing and installing drainage systems, Sustainable Drainage (SuDs), and design work.

• Lot 2: Maintaining bridges and structures, including technical inspections and developer applications.

• Lot 3: Performing general highway maintenance, such as street furniture repairs, road safety projects, and supporting sustainable transport.

These contracts are open to SMEs and voluntary organisations, fostering wider participation.

What’s Next

• Contract Start Date: 1^st April 2025

• Extensions: Potential 3-year extension through annual increments after the initial contract period.

The Bottom Line

RBKC's £80 million highways contracts focus on improving public infrastructure while supporting sustainability and road safety. Contractors will play a crucial role in ensuring the maintenance and development of highways, bridges, and drainage systems in this densely populated area.