A report by the Director of Technical Services sought approval to extend the current framework arrangement for a further period of six months pending the introduction of the North West Construction Hub (NWCH) Professional Services Framework.

RESOLVED: That

(1)  the extension of the existing Consultant Framework Arrangement be approved for a further period of six months from 1 November 2010 to 1 May 2011 for those consultants in the discipline categories of Architects; Civil Engineering; Mechanical & Electrical Engineering; Quantity Surveying; Structural Engineering and Transportation Engineering, who agree to stand by the current rates and agreements in place; and

(2)  the relevant officers be requested to enter into negotiations with NWCH and take part in the necessary procurement processes, where appropriate, regarding the establishment of a new professional services framework for public sector organisations.