Principal Contractor for Phase 1 of New Cemetery Development in Gillingham

Gillingham Town Council is seeking a principal contractor to deliver Phase 1 of a new three-phase cemetery development on agricultural land off Common Mead Lane, Gillingham, Dorset. The existing cemetery (opened 1890) reached capacity in February 2024 and can no longer accept new burial plots. The new cemetery has been designed to integrate sensitively with the rural landscape while supporting biodiversity, sustainable drainage, and accessible facilities for all visitors. The successful contractor will manage the complete project lifecycle from detailed design through construction, commissioning, and handover. Key responsibilities include: developing detailed technical designs for landscape, civils, and drainage; preparing specifications and contract documentation; managing site logistics and construction programming; ensuring health and safety compliance; coordinating specialist subcontractors; and completing practical completion, defects rectification, and handover documentation. The project is subject to obtaining full planning approval (application P/FUL/2026/04055 pending decision) and securing finance. Tenderers must demonstrate relevant experience delivering similar projects and submit company background, three project references, insurance confirmations, health and safety policies, accreditations, detailed programmes, method statements, risk assessments, and a financial breakdown. Tender deadline: 9 October 2026.