Issue - meetings

This report provides an update on the progress for the procurement and implementation of the new housing repairs service including relevant pre-tender considerations.

Cabinet RESOLVED

(1)    To approve an extension to the current housing repairs service contract with Wates, for a period of six months, with the possibility of extension for a further six months for the reasons set out in paragraphs 5.1 and 5.2 of the report.

(2)    To approve the outline pre-tender considerations set out in Section 6 of the report.

(3)    To approve the new timetable for future repairs delivery actions as set out at paragraph 5.3 of the report.

(4)    To approve the proposal that the final cost/quality split be agreed by the Corporate Director, Resident Services, in consultation with the Corporate Director, Finance and Resources.

Eligible for call-in: Yes

Deadline for submission of call-in: 6pm on Monday 18 March 24

Councillor Knight (Cabinet Member for Housing, Homelessness and Renters Security) introduced a report providing an update on progress with the procurement and implementation of the new housing repairs service, including relevant pre-tender considerations.

In considering the report Cabinet noted the work undertaken to develop proposals for future delivery of the repairs service following the decision taken in September 2023 to move to a new hybrid delivery model for the service.  Members were reminded that the new model would include a framework of local contractors along with a handyperson service that would predominantly undertake communal repairs and where necessary provide a rapid response service.  Given the need to provide sufficient time for design of the final contract specifications and mobilisation of the new service model, members were advised they were also being asked to consider a revised timetable for delivery of the programme which would include a six (plus six, if required) month extension to the current Wates contract as well as a six-month mobilisation period, as detailed within section 5.3 of the report.

Members welcomed the efforts being made to address concerns relating to current performance of the repairs service through the new model of service delivery along with the approach and support being provided to encourage involvement of local contractors in the procurement process as part of the wider community wealth building opportunities identified.

In thanking all those involved in development of the proposals and recognising the improvements being sought in terms of performance outcomes and resilience of the future repairs service Cabinet RESOLVED:

(1)    To approve an extension to the current housing repairs service contract with Wates, for a period of six months, with the possibility of extension for a further six months for the reasons set out in paragraphs 5.1 and 5.2 of the report.

(2)    To approve the outline pre-tender considerations set out in Section 6 of the report.

(3)    To approve the new timetable for future repairs delivery actions as set out at paragraph 5.3 of the report.

(4)    To approve the proposal that the final cost/quality split be agreed by the Corporate Director, Resident Services, in consultation with the Corporate Director, Finance and Resources.