Issue - meetings

Report from the Cabinet Member for Housing Services is attached.

The Leader and Cabinet Member for Strategic Growth presented the report on behalf of Councillor Cummins, Cabinet Member for Housing Services which sought formal approval of the projects ‘Communal Works Lots 1 and 2’ which was a follow on report from the Housing Revenue Account Capital Works Programme 2024/25.

Decision:

Cabinet approved the award of the following contracts:

1.    Communal Works Lot 1 – Ian Williams contract value £659,979.91

2.    Communal Works Lot 2 – Bell Group contract value £485,590.23

3.    Approve the award of a contract to the winning bidders for the initial period of the tender with the option to extend for a further 12 months should additional work be identified.

Alternative options considered and rejected:

Do nothing: These works will enhance the physical appearance and security of common areas across the Borough and will be welcomed and valued by residents.

Deliver Inhouse: Due to the scope of work within these contracts there is both a lack of the suitable skills and capacity in the in-house contractor (Repairs Direct). There is also significant specialist door entry system works included in these contracts.

Open Tender: This option was considered and is possible. However this would involve a significantly extended procurement process in both time and cost. The use of the Procure Plus framework which specialises in social housing investment works adds benefits in ensuring all tenderers meet capability, expertise and compliance requirements and the mini-competition allows the tender to be tailored to the Councils specific requirements. Using the framework offers clear benefits over the open tender route.