The Cabinet of Havering Council met on Wednesday 9 October 2024, approving significant investments in new school facilities, upgrades to the council's IT systems, and the replacement of its bus fleet. Key decisions included the award of a contract for the design of a new special school, the procurement of ULEZ-compliant buses, and the continuation of contracts for social care and housing IT systems.

Award of a Pre-Contract Service Agreement to Develop Designs for Balgores Special School

Cabinet approved the award of a Pre-Contract Service Agreement (PCSA) to Galliford Try Ltd for the development of designs for the new Balgores Special School. This decision, valued at £2,328,096, marks a significant step towards providing much-needed special educational facilities for Havering resident children. The PCSA is anticipated to last 51 weeks, after which a further report will be presented for the award of the main construction contract. This initiative aligns with the Havering Vision and the Children and Young People Education Place Planning Plan 2023-2027, aiming to improve educational outcomes and reduce out-of-borough transport costs for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Award of Contracts for ULEZ Compliant Buses for PTS

The Cabinet agreed to award a contract to Treka Bus Limited for the purchase of thirteen 16-seater, ULEZ-compliant buses for the Passenger Transport Service (PTS). This procurement, valued at £1.647 million, is essential for replacing aging vehicles that are no longer Euro 6 standard and would incur daily charges to operate within the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). These new buses will primarily serve Home to School transport for children with SEND, as well as other transport needs for Children and Adult Services. The decision supports the Council's Air Quality Action Plan 2018-2023 and ensures the continued reliability and accessibility of vital transport services.

Direct Award of Social Care Case Management System - Liquidlogic

A contract for the provision of a Social Care Case Management System was approved for direct award to Liquidlogic. This 7-year contract (5 years with a 2-year extension option), with a total value of approximately £1.8 million, will ensure the continued operation of critical systems for Adult and Children Social Care Services. The decision was made to maintain service continuity and leverage the existing, well-integrated system, avoiding the disruption and costs associated with procuring a new system. The contract utilises the Crown Commercial Services Framework Agreement (Vertical Application Solutions - RM6259).

Commencement of Procurement of the Replacement Housing System

Cabinet agreed to commence the procurement process for a new, integrated housing technology platform. The current Capita Open Housing software contract expires in March 2026, and a review indicated that a new system is the best option for the Council's Housing service. The procurement will be conducted via a mini-competition through the Crown Commercial Services Vertical Application Solutions (VAS) framework. The estimated contract value ranges from £970,000 to £2,368,000 over a maximum of 7 years. This move aims to enhance efficiency and resident service delivery within the Housing department.