Decision

It is recommended that:

The Head of Housing Development approves awarding a contract to Orbis Protect Limited for a lock change to units 3 – 6 and 8 Barbara Hucklesbury Close N22 in accordance with CSOs 11.01 and 11.02 for the value of £500 plus VAT.

The properties are currently secured by Orbis Protect to prevent unauthorised access and squatting.

As the site is now being brought forward for development, urgent access is required to undertake asbestos surveys, which are a statutory requirement prior to any intrusive works or redevelopment activities.

The Voids Team have been unable to locate the existing keys.

The properties are currently fitted with enhanced security doors and associated security measures installed to prevent unauthorised access and squatting.

Due to the specialist nature of these security installations, the works cannot be undertaken by a traditional locksmith, therefore, awarding this contract is the only viable option.

The value of the contract is £500 plus VAT.

Reasons for the decision

The Barbara Hucklesbury Close scheme forms part of the Council’s programme to bring forward sites for future development.

The scheme includes a number of vacant residential units which are currently secured to prevent unauthorised access while plans are progressed.

Units 3–6 and 8 are presently locked via Orbis Protect due to their vacant status.

As the scheme is now moving into the construction stage, access is required to undertake asbestos surveys, which are a statutory requirement prior to any redevelopment or intrusive works.

The Voids Team has been unable to locate the existing keys for these units, and access cannot be achieved.

It is therefore necessary to award a contract to change the front and rear door locks to enable safe access while ensuring the properties remain secure.

This action will support the timely progression of the Barbara Hucklesbury Close scheme, mitigate programme delay, and ensure compliance with health and safety requirements.

Alternative options considered

N/A – the Council needs to be able to access its properties.

As the Voids Team cannot locate the keys, the lock replacement must be carried out by a provider with experience in accessing and adapting secured void properties, ensuring that access can be gained without compromising the integrity of the doors or the ongoing security of the units.