Reg. 48 (PCR 2015)

Prior information notices

In: Define > Sourcing strategy

Overview

This regulation allows contracting authorities to notify the market of their intention to conduct future procurements through the publication of a prior information notice (PIN). Such notices must either be published in accordance with the requirements of regulation 51 PCR 2015 (publication on the UK e-notification service) or through publication on the contracting authority’s buyer profile in accordance with regulation 52 PCR 2015 (publication otherwise than on the UK e-notification service).

The period covered by the prior information notice is a maximum of 12 months from the date on which the notice is transmitted for publication.

Objective at this commercial stage

In certain circumstances, deadlines for the receipt of tenders may be reduced where a PIN has previously been published prior to the publication of the contract notice.

Key considerations at this commercial stage

Contracting authorities should:

  • ensure that the reduction of timescales for the receipt of tenders (following publication of a PIN) is consistent with the relevant rules applicable to the procurement procedure.

See also in the Procurement Act 2023:

  • Section 15: Planned procurement notices
  • Section 54: Time limits

Additional support and guidance

Make sure you:

  • read the regulation
  • seek legal and commercial advice in the context of specific procurements