Content

To instruct TR Scaffold Ltd to installation a
‘Crash Deck’ below high risk RAAC panels (specifically
to the area directly above Teaching Pool)

Reasons for the decision

The Teaching Pool, Splashpad and School Change
areas are currently closed on the advice of structural engineers
following a survey carried out at the Recreation Centre to identify
the presence of RAAC within the structure. The survey highlighted
that some of the RAAC panels identified were in too poor a
condition to allow the Recreation Centre to operate as normal due
to the unknown structural stability of the panels within the roof
structure.
Following consultation with The Cheltenham Trust a closure was
agreed in order to allow remedial work to commence within the
critical (high risk) areas highlighted above. In order to prevent a
prolonged closure the normal procurement route could not be adhered
to. Therefore, Property informally spoke with several Scaffolding
Contractors in specific relation to the structural engineers
requirements for the high risk RAAC panels above the teaching pool,
namely the provision of a ‘crash deck’. Contractors
were invited to tender based on the structural engineers drawings
and specification, requesting commitment that they could deliver
within the timescale and were prepared to work alongside other
Contractors.
TR Scaffold were the only Contractor who showed an interest in
undertaking the specialised works within the timescale and advised
they has previous expertise in this area. The Property Team have
worked with TR Scaffold for a number of years in relation to
structural scaffold supports located in the wetside basement at the
Recreation Centre. They have an excellent knowledge of the site and
structure and the Property Team have found them to be diligent,
competent Contractors.

Alternative options considered

To carry out a full open tender exercise, this
would require closure of the entire wetside area of the facility
for at least 6 months which would have had a detrimental impact on
the income stream of the Operator. Therefore this option was
discounted in favour of a rolling programme with an experienced
Contractor having previously demonstrated an excellent reputation
for delivery.