An officer key decision was made regarding the refurbishment of Abbey Lane Children's Centre, with the decision approved subject to a call-in period. This decision authorises the commencement of the procurement process for the refurbishment works.

Refurbishment Works at Abbey Lane Children's Centre

The Corporate Director of Children and Young People's Services, Laura Eden, approved the initiation of a procurement process for significant refurbishment works at Abbey Lane Children's Centre, located at 1 Abbey Lane, Stratford, London E15 2SD. The estimated pre-tender cost for these works is £920,000. The refurbishment is essential to bring the building up to current regulatory, safeguarding, and accessibility standards, and to enable its formal designation as a Family Hub under the Department for Education (DfE) programme.

The scope of the planned works includes refurbishing the reception area and front external entrance, redesigning and upgrading the training room, improving toilet facilities, remodelling the first-floor staff area, and undertaking external works such as replacing defective flooring, installing additional drainage, creating a basketball area, and making health and safety improvements to a pond area.

Funding for the project is secured from multiple sources. The Department for Education is contributing £250,000 towards the Family Hubs Capital Transformation, and £767,000 is available from the Council's Building Renewals and Improvement budget, financed by borrowing. An additional £14,000 will be allocated from Section 106 Carbon Offset Funding. The total estimated cost, including a contingency of £188,000, is £1.108m.

The procurement process will involve inviting six contractors to competitively tender for the works via the Council's Oracle Fusion system. This restricted competition is deemed appropriate due to the need for contractors with proven experience in educational or community buildings, and the RFQ process is designed to facilitate a timely award to meet DfE programme deadlines. The evaluation criteria will be weighted at 70% for price and 30% for quality.

This project aligns with the Council's Corporate Plan 2022-2026, aiming to invest in children and young people and make Newham the best place for them to thrive. It also supports the 'Well Newham' initiative, specifically the '50 Steps to a Healthier Borough' by creating a welcoming and inclusive space for residents.

The decision to proceed with the procurement was made by Laura Eden, Corporate Director of Children and Young People's Services, in consultation with the Corporate Director of Inclusive Economy and Housing, Paul Kitson. The decision is subject to a call-in period, after which it can be implemented from 29 May 2026.