Content

DECLARATIONS OF
INTEREST FOR THIS ITEM:
 
None
 
RESOLVED:
 
That the Cabinet Member for Children,
Education and Families, pursuant to Contract Standing Orders 0.08
and 2.01(b):
 

1.   
Approved the commencement of a tendering process for a construction
works contractor to deliver condition works on the west site at
Coleridge Primary School.
 
Reasons for
decision
 
The school had suffered from a historical
shortfall of investment and subsequently the roof covering of the
building had deteriorated. The structure of the roof was
predominantly constructed with wood wool, a deleterious material,
which could lose its structural integrity if it became wet.
Therefore, it was essential to engage a construction works delivery
contractor to undertake the roof works.
 
Replacing the leaking roof at the school was
essential to ensure the safety and well-being of students, staff,
and visitors. A roof constructed with wood wool, while initially
cost-effective and environmentally friendly, could deteriorate over
time, especially when exposed to moisture. The leaks not only
compromised the structural integrity of the building but also
posed significant health risks, such as
mould growth and potential respiratory issues. Additionally, a
well-maintained roof was crucial for preserving the school's
infrastructure, preventing further damage, and ensuring a conducive
learning environment. Investing in a new roof ultimately saved on
long-term repair costs and demonstrated the council's commitment to
providing a safe and supportive educational setting.
 
It was proposed to procure a contractor on a
single-stage, JCT traditional form of contract using the London
Construction Programme Education Framework or DPS. Soft market
engagement had been undertaken to ascertain interest and
availability within the market, with positive feedback on the
proposed approach.
 
Alternative options
considered
 
Do nothing – The council could have
decided not to tender the scheme and continued repairing the
leaking roof instead. This might have seemed cost-effective in the
short term, but it was not a sustainable solution. The ongoing
repairs were unlikely to fully resolve the underlying issues,
especially given the roof's construction with wood wool, which was
prone to deterioration when exposed to moisture. This approach
risked recurring leaks and further damage, leading to escalating
repair costs over time. Ultimately, the repeated repairs might have
proved to be more expensive than investing in a comprehensive roof
replacement. By not addressing the root cause, the council
potentially compromised the safety and integrity of the building,
which could have had more serious financial and operational
implications in the future.
In-house – There was currently no
resource within the Council that had the capacity, specialist
expertise or qualifications to deliver this service.
Invite open tenders via Contracts Finder
– This would have resulted in a protracted tender period and
would have delayed delivery of the project.
Use an alternative public sector DPS –
This would not have been compliant with CSO 8.02, given the LCP
Framework or DPS had been deemed suitable for the requirements
being sought.