Accelerated debrief in construction procurement
In December 2009, the Public Contracts (Amendments) Regulations 2009 came into force, which implemented the new Remedies Directive. The changes introduced had a significant impact on 'accelerated debrief' procedures which had been a means for tenderers to obtain information about an unsuccessful bid following contract award. From this they would then be able, if they so decided, to issue a challenge to the award.
Public contracting authorities must leave a period of least 10 days between a contract award decision and the formal award of the contract. This is known as the standstill (Alcatel) period. It is a legal requirement for all public contracting authority procurement processes covered by the full scope of the EU Procurement Directives.
The purpose of the standstill is to allow unsuccessful bidders the chance to obtain more information on the award of the contract so they can take appropriate action if they believe they have been unfairly treated. The commencement of the standstill (Alcatel) period is from the date the authority decides to award the contract. The standstill (Alcatel) period will last from 10 to 15 days, depending on the method by which the Alcatel letter is communicated.
The 2009 Remedies Directive removed the provision for an accelerated debrief and replaced it with an obligation for those awarding the contract to provide a more comprehensive statement concerning the reasons for the decision as part of the initial notice. This full debrief information accompanies all Alcatel standstill letters that are sent, not just to those bidders who request it.
Prior to these changes, unsuccessful bidders had to request an accelerated debrief by the end of the second working day of the standstill period. Responses to those requests had to be made within day 3-7 of the standstill period, with any delays resulting in a time extension.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Top tips and risks to look out for.
Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication
Pertinent technical issues, retrofit measures and the roles involved.
New alliance will tackle skills shortage in greater Manchester
The pioneering Electrotechnical Training and Careers Alliance.
Drone data at the edge: three steps to better AI insights
Offering greater accuracy and quicker access to insights.
From fit-out to higher-risk buildings.
Heritage conservation in Calgary
The triple bottom line.
College of West Anglia apprentice wins SkillELECTRIC gold.
Scottish government launch delivery plan
To strengthen planning and tackle the housing emergency.
How people react in ways which tend to restore their comfort.
Comfort is a crucial missing piece of the puzzle.
ECA launches Recharging Electrical Skills Charter in Wales
Best solutions for the industry and electrical skills in Wales.
New homebuilding skills hub launch and industry response
Working with CITB and NHBC to launch fast track training.
Building Peoples Network of Networks
Amplifying voices and giving support to people from diverse and under-represented groups in construction.
Experiences of discrimination and sexual misconduct rife
Reveals ARB research into architectual workplace culture.
About the 5 Percent Club and its members
The 5% Club; a dynamic movement of employers committed to building and developing the workforce.