Request ID: FOI-0938-2324 Date published: 11 July 2023
You asked
While we are aware of the name of the preferred bidder for EVID Tranche 1 Batch 1, is it possible for TfL to disclose the names of others providers who submitted bids for Batch 1?
We answered
TfL Ref: FOI-0938-2324
Thank you for your request which we received on 23 June 2023. You asked for the names of bidders that submitted bids for EVID Tranche 1 Batch 1.
Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy. I can confirm that we hold the information you require.
However, the names of the unsuccessful bidders are exempt from disclosure under section 43(2) of the Freedom of Information Act, the exemption that protects against the prejudicial release of commercially sensitive information. In this case, the exemption applies as release of this information would reveal to the world at large which companies bid for the contract and provide an insight into those companies. Release of this information would be likely to prejudice the commercial interests of those unsuccessful bidders, and enable their competitors to access useful information about them which would potentially reduce the competitiveness of the market. This is particularly relevant as we are currently out to tender in relation to two other procurements for the same project. The sites for charging infrastructure under the EVID project are being released in batches and tenders for Batches 2 and 3 are due for submission in August this year.
The use of this exemption is subject to an assessment of the public interest in relation to the disclosure of the information concerned. We recognise the need for openness and transparency by public authorities but in this instance the public interest in ensuring that TfL is able to obtain the best value for the public purse outweighs the general public interest in increasing transparency of our processes.
Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.
Yours sincerely
Eva Hextall FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
