The East Devon National Landscape is seeking proposals from qualified environmental marine consultants to conduct a detailed Stage 1 desk-based assessment. This study will evaluate the feasibility of reintroducing the European Flat Oyster (Ostrea edulis) into the coastal waters and estuaries of East Devon.

Native oysters are critical ecosystem engineers that have declined significantly across Europe. This project aims to determine if restoration is viable within our waters, aligning with regional priorities like the East Devon National Landscape Management Plan, emerging East Devon Nature Recovery Plan and Local Nature Recovery Strategies. This will help deliver the against the Government 30×30 Target to protect 30% of land and sea for wildlife by 2030.

Closing date for quotes is 12am Friday 24th July 2026.

Project Area

The geographic scope of this desk-based assessment covers the coastal waters and intertidal zones from Lyme Regis (including the whole of Lyme Regis – Eastern boundary) to the Exe Estuary (Western boundary).

• The assessment must include all intermediate estuaries, specifically the Exe Estuary, Otter Estuary, Sid Estuary and Axe Estuary.
• It must span from the upper tidal limits of these estuaries across the whole coastline of the East Devon National Landscape out to the 12-nautical-mile territorial waters limit, prioritising shallow coastal zones suitable for Ostrea edulis (up to 80m depth).

Budget & Timeline

Budget: This is an invitation to tender. Please outline your proposed approach to this commission, drawing on your experience to demonstrate how you would successfully deliver these objectives along with a price for completing the project. Max 4 pages.

Delivery window: August 2026 to March 2027.