The current contract for services for delivery of the Wirral Business Support Service is due to expire on 31.05.20. This report provides an update on contractual performance to date by supplier Wirral Chamber and outlines proposals for an extension of contract for the period 01.06.20 to 31.05.21.

A one-year extension is allowable under the contractual terms, subject to satisfactory performance and confirmation that the service remains in line with Council priorities.

Contract performance is satisfactory and continuation of frontline support to Wirral businesses is key to delivery of Wirral’s significant programme of growth.

The Director of Regeneration & Place

Resolved - That:

1. a 12-month extension of the current contract for services with Wirral Chamber in delivery of the Wirral Business Support Service be approved

2. contractual finance and output schedules in line with those proposed in the report be concluded.

Option 1 - Closure of service: the supplier has met the conditions of contract deemed suitable for progression of the +1 extension namely, achievement of satisfactory performance and continued strategic alignment with Council requirements. Provision of frontline business growth support remains critical to the growth ambitions for the borough.

Option 2 - Full reconfiguration of proposed budget: annual savings were designed into the original contract specification, with a 5% budget reduction levied each year. Through implementation of a robust commercialisation plan, the supplier has successfully achieved the fine balance of driving income generation to deliver more for less, whilst maintaining an effective, universal service for Wirral businesses. The 5% reduction requirement is deemed achievable and recommended for continuation; the application of further savings would adversely impact on service reach and performance.

Option 3 - Full reconfiguration of proposed outputs: contractual targets were reviewed and revised at Year 2 end to maintain stretch in areas of overperformance. The selected outputs remain relevant to delivery of the services required to meet business priorities.