The decision is to appoint consultants to design the proposed path works at Osney, once Homes England have confirmed they are satisfied the HIF funding for the works can be drawn down. These works will improve the path between Osney Mead industrial estate (which has just been the subject of footpath/cyclepath improvements undertaken by Oxford University funded by the Local Growth Fund) and the proposed bridge between Oxpens and Osney. This part of the route will help to facilitate development at Osney Mead and the aim is provide a safe route at times of flood. The works will be funded using Housing Infrastructure Funding that has been secured for the works.

A tender was advertised using the Homes England Property Professional Services Framework portal on 21st May, 2021.

Following publication of the invitations to tender, a total of two consultants had submitted tender returns.

The tenders were evaluated on 60% quality against five key criteria, and 40% against the price. Stantec submitted the best offer in terms of quality and cost and have been selected to undertake the work. The value of the contract is £165k.