Decision details

Business Support Service: short-term extension

Decision Maker: Director of Regeneration and Place

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: No

Is subject to call in?: No

Purpose:

This report seeks approval to extend delivery of the Council's commissioned Business Support Service, which is due to conclude on 31 September 2021. This will enable a period of contractor mobilisation for a new Business Support Service, which is currently being procured.

Decision:

That the Director of Regeneration and Place, having consulted the Chair and Spokespersons of the Economy, Regeneration and Development Committee, approves a three-month extension of the Business Support Services contract to 31 December 2021.

 

Reasons for the decision:

To enable uninterrupted provision of Business Support Services while a new procurement process is undertaken for a re-prioritised Business Support Service (Policy and Resources Committee, March 2021, Minute 94 refers).

Alternative options considered:

Another option would be to continue with the current procurement schedule, which would require a new provider to commence delivery from 1 October 2021. Procurement and legal advice is that a 1st October 2021 commencement date provides insufficient time for a new provider to mobilise, especially as there will be TUPE implications if a new provider is selected.

 

 

Publication date: 16/09/2021

Date of decision: 16/09/2021

Accompanying Documents:

  • Business Support Service: short-term extension