Decision

To award a contact to FFT LLP to provide professional services to support the procurement of multiple HRA contracts. FFT has been appointed via a Framework to enable faster procurement of a pre-vetted supplier with expertise and significant experience in this area.

Reasons for the decision

The HRA has multiple contracts with third-party suppliers. During 2026/27, multiple contracts need to be retendered and there is a need for external support to deliver this programme of work. The supplier will provide specialist technical expertise, ensuring contracts adhere to relevant building standards, regulations and sector best practice. Engaging a third-party expert ensures that specifications and contract documentation are technically robust, legally compliant, and commercially sound, reducing delivery risk and improving overall value for money. SHDC will establish broad parameters for each procurement to ensure lessons learnt are applied and local criteria is included in the specification, where appropriate.

Alternative options considered

To not use an external expert to support with procurement.
Appointing an external expert via an established compliant framework is considered to be the most effective way of procuring multiple contracts within a short period of time, and achieve best value, reduced risk and efficient delivery, while maintaining compliance with public procurement regulations.