As a public sector organisation we operate under strict regulations when purchasing goods, works and services.
The Procurement Act 2023 was implemented on 24 February 2025, introducing new tendering processes and changing how businesses bid for public sector contracts.
Process
We use the Open eProcurement system for our procurement process.
Suppliers interesting in working for the council should register as a supplier on this platform.
Tender documents
If you express an interest in an opportunity, the following documents will be available to you on the Open system:
- instructions and advice to tenderers – includes deadlines, how to return your tender, evaluation criteria and contact details
- specification plus supporting documents
- our terms and conditions
You will need to return your tender using the Open system by the closing date specified.
Procurement principles
We award contracts on the basis of the most advantageous tender. We consider, not only price but also:
- evidence of qualifications and experience
- how proposed procurements could make local improvements and how these could be delivered via the procurement process
- how what is being procured may improve the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of Harlow and the surrounding areas
- equality, diversity and sustainability issues
The criteria must be relevant to the subject of the contract and proportionate to the value and potential impact that could be achieved.
For more information on how we purchase goods and services, you can read our procurement strategy.