Purpose

This
report will consider the route to recommission the grounds
maintenance contract for the council’s parks, recreation
parks, recreation grounds and sports pitches from January
2027.

Decision

RESOLVED –

 

That the Head of Housing, Health and Environment, in
consultation with the Cabinet Member for Sport, Leisure and Health,
be authorised to finalise negotiations with Tivoli Group Limited
for the provision of the Grounds Maintenance Contract from 1
January 2027 be approved.

 

That the Head of Housing, Health and Environment be
authorised to make a Direct Award of the Grounds Maintenance
Contract and associated leases to Tivoli Group Limited for the
period 1 January 2027 to 31 December 2029, subject to (a) the
publication of a Transparency Notice and consideration of any
comments received in consultation with the Procurement Manager and
the MKLS Contracts & Commissioning Team Leader and (b)
satisfactory confirmation of the financial standing of the company
or the provision of a parent company guarantee be
approved.

That the Head of Mid Kent Legal Services be
authorised to negotiate and complete all necessary and ancillary
legal documentation and formalities to give effect to these
recommendations be approved.

 
REASON FOR DECISION:  A short term contract would ensure
the uncertainties associated with longer term contracts would not
impinge on the procurement process and would provide continuity of
service during the likely period of transition to a unitary
authority in 2027/28.