Decision details

Under bus reform legislation, SYMCA are required to undertake a Statutory Consultation before a decision can be made to proceed with bus franchising in South Yorkshire.

Given the scale and scope of the consultation exercise, it cannot be undertaken in house. As such, a tender was issued seeking support for SYMCA with the exercise.

Eight bids were received. The Most Economically Advantageous bid was received from DJS Research Limited.

A decision to launch the consultation will be required to be taken by the MCA board, scheduled for 8th October 2024. In this case it was essential to carry our preparatory work in advance of that decision in order to align with Mayoral expectations around bus reform.

To award a contract for Bus Franchising Consultation Services at an evaluated/estimated contract value of £165,000 (subject to variable cost elements dependent on response rates, etc) to DJS Research Limited following a full open procurement exercise.

1. Approve the appointment of DJS Research Limited to deliver a legally compliant consultation in respect of Bus Franchising.

2. Delay award until after the MCA board decision in October 2024.

3. Do not progress with contract award