Source: https://tendernation.io/opportunities/01a13bd7-7fdd-71be-bfba-04f61b8a8b0d/solent-freeport-feasibility-study-into-space-focused-infrastructure closed GB open procedure Suitable for SMEs # Solent Freeport: Feasibility Study into Space Focused Infrastructure [Portsmouth City Council](https://tendernation.io/buyers/portsmouth-city-council) Estimated value Not stated Published 4 Mar 2026 Deadline Closed 25 Mar 2026 ## Who can bid - Buyer says suitable for SMEs The buyer ticked “suitable for SMEs” on the notice. Anyone can still bid. - Below-threshold contract Buyers cannot shortlist bidders on suitability before tenders are in, so everyone gets to submit a bid (except some larger works contracts). [Procurement Act 2023, section 85](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2023/54/section/85) - Open procedure Anyone can submit a full tender; there is no shortlisting stage. [More contracts for small businesses and VCSEs](https://tendernation.io/opportunities/for-small-businesses) ## About this tender Portsmouth City Council on behalf of the Solent Freeport, as its accountable body is seeking to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced organisation to undertake a comprehensive feasibility study exploring the potential need, viability, optimal operating model, and most suitable location for space focused infrastructure. This should include but not be limited to a Centre of Excellence for Electric Propulsion, Satellite Manufacturing or Satellite Communications in the Solent region. The outcomes of this study will inform future decision making, investment planning, and partnership development within the region. The appointed supplier will be required to deliver an evidence based feasibility study to determine: - Whether there is sufficient demand and strategic value to establish a Centre of Excellence in the Solent - What such a centre would need to comprise (size, capabilities, testing facilities, specialisms, and infrastructure) - The most viable and sustainable operating model - Suggestions for the facility's location The successful supplier will be required to deliver a robust, evidence based study that addresses the following: - Gap Analysis (Supply-side Assessment) - Needs Assessment (Demand-side Assessment) - Market and Competitor Analysis (Strategic Positioning) - Concept for the Proposed Centre - Location Assessment - Operating Model Options - Economic Impact and Investment Potential It is the intention that the procurement will adhere to the below timetable: - Documents available on In-tend - 4th March 2026 - Deadline for requests for clarification - 14th March 5pm 2026 - Quotation return deadline - 25th March 5pm 2026 - Award decision notified to bidders & contract award - 3rd April 2026 - Start of contract - 8th April 2026 The supplier will be expected to: - Attend an inception meeting - 8th April 2026 - Provide a detailed project plan - 15th April 2026 - Draft Feasibility Study Report - 26th June 2026 - Produce Final Feasibility Study Report, incorporating feedback - 31st July 2026 - Produce Executive Summary suitable for publication - 31st July 2026 Read full description ## CPV classification Technical analysis or consultancy services Business analysis consultancy services Project management consultancy services Research and development consultancy services General management consultancy services Source Find a Tender (UK) · Notice ocds-h6vhtk-06628d-2026-03-04T17:33:36Z [View official notice](https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Notice/ocds-h6vhtk-06628d-2026-03-04T17:33:36Z) Never miss a tender like this again Get AI summaries, deadline alerts and a bid pipeline for tenders matched to your business. 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