This report requests that the Director of Regeneration and Place agrees to award a construction contract to H20 Servicing Limited. The contract allows for the supply and installation of swimming pool covers at Guinea Gap Baths, Leasowe Leisure Centre, Europa Pools, West Kirby Concourse and The Oval.

The decision supports the delivery of the Wirral Plan 2025 by providing a Sustainable Environment and will allow leisure services to make financial savings as well as energy reductions which contribute to Wirral Councils commitment to environmental responsibilities in supporting the “Cool Wirral” strategy.

Resolved – That the Director of Regeneration and Place has approved that H20 Servicing Limited be awarded the contract for the installation of swimming pool covers at Guinea Gap Baths, Leasowe Leisure Centre, Europa Pools, West Kirby Concourse and The Oval within approved budget and as the highest scoring tenderer in accordance with the lowest fixed price criteria. 

A request for a Capital allocation to support the installation of pool covers at the Council’s leisure facilities was approved by Council as part of the Capital Monitoring process.

  All efforts to reduce energy usage are significant not only due to the financial implications of running Council services but also due to the Council’s commitments to a sustainable environment. Pool covers are an effective method of reducing energy consumption by up to 10-30% of total pool energy use.

  A detailed specification of employers’ requirements was issued in October 2022 and an open tender exercise undertaken. Three bids were received. The bids were scored on a fixed price basis with H20 Servicing Limited meeting the necessary requirements and submitting the lowest priced and being only compliant tender.

Do nothing – benefits of the project would not be realised in terms of financial savings, avoidance of building fabric issues, and supporting the Council’s net zero Carbon targets.

Reduce the number of sites for installation – economies of scale are achieved by undertaking all installations within one contract. All pools have the potential to save energy and thus achieve financial benefits.