Purpose

Works in excess of £500 associated with the replacement of the AHU and the refurbishment of the changing rooms 

Decision

Cabinet unanimously agreed to:

1. Approve the direct appointment of R G Carter Cambridge Ltd via the PAGBO Medium Construction Works Framework Lot 2 Projects of £500k - £1,000,000 for the delivery of works relating at Vivacity Premier as outlined in this report within the approved budgetary allowance of £800,000. 
2. To approve delegated authority to the Executive Director of Place and Economy (in consultation with the Executive Director of Corporate Services and Director of Legal and Governance to take all such steps necessary to deliver the recommendations above, including any variation(s), or an extension of the contract period that may be required.
3.  To approve the use of reserves to fund the revenue implications of up to £250,000 for the purpose of delivering a temporary changing facility for the 12-week closure.
4. Delegate authority to the Executive Director of Place and Economy (in consultation with the Executive Director of Corporate Services) to take all such steps necessary to agree a hire agreement for the purposes of delivering the temporary changing facility, including the contract award, variation, and extension of the contract if required.

Alternative options considered

Delaying the replacement of the AHU - Although the current system is functioning, persistent operational issues and breakdowns have adversely affected the maintenance of an optimal environment. Unplanned facility closures result in operational losses and reputational risks. By strategically scheduling facility closures for these works, the quality of service can be enhanced going forward. Delaying this replacement is therefore not recommended.

Not undertaking the changing room refurbishment – Doing this work alongside the AHU replacement offers shared preliminary costs, avoids duplicate efforts and costs, enables single contractor delivery, and requires only one facility closure. Separating these projects is therefore not recommended.