Forestry England are inviting suppliers to express an interest in quoting for an opportunity to supply and establish a handheld radio communication system for use at the Forest of Dean Cycle Centre.

The centre is based in the Sallowvallets Enclosure, covering an area of approximately 300ha.

The landscape is steep and heavily forested, with the main centre facilities at the bottom of the valley.

Mobile phone signal is generally very poor, with limited wired internet available at the Cycle Centre.

There is an extensive trail network within this area, comprising various downhill and cross country trails.

The centre sees in excess of 265,000 visitors every year, and given the high risk nature of mountain biking, we have to deal with a significant number of incidents across the network.

The purpose of the radio system is to give Forestry England staff a means of communicating with each other, site partner staff in the café and bike hire yard, and emergency services.

There is a ranger office at the Centre equipped with a power supply and internet.

There is also a Forestry England office at Beechenhurst, on the hillside to the east of the centre.

This office is equipped with a landline.

It is clear from site visits that a mast will be needed somewhere, either at the Centre itself or at Beechenhurst.

Staff travel around the area on foot, in vehicles and on bikes.

Cycle Centre staff have daily use of two separate vehicles, and we will consider proposals to install a vehicle set if required.

A map of the minimum required coverage area with key locations marked is attached.

We understand that 100% coverage across this area is not realistic, however the system should be designed to provide the maximum possible.

It is expected that 4-6 handsets will be needed initially, with the ability to increase this number later being essential.