Aberdeenshire Council met on Monday 22 September 2025, and agreed to delegate authority to relevant officers to negotiate and agree on contractual matters related to a commercially sensitive contract. They also agreed to exclude the public from the meeting during a discussion of the contract matter to avoid disclosing exempt information. Councillors also agreed to adhere to the Public Sector Equality Duty when making decisions.

Contractual Matters

The council agreed to delegate authority to relevant officers to deal with, negotiate, and agree to a number of specified and necessary contractual matters related to a commercially sensitive contract. These matters were not covered by the Project Board delegations. The council also noted the risks associated with not acting on the matter.

A report dated 19 September 2025, prepared by the Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services, was circulated to the council, relating to this commercially sensitive contract matter. The Chief Executive, Jim Savege, and the Head of Legal & People, Karen Wiles, addressed the members and provided advice as part of the report's introduction. The Director of Environment and Infrastructure Services then introduced the details of the report, highlighting the relevant matters for decision and responding to questions from members.

It was noted that a reference group of elected members will be utilised where necessary by officers exercising delegated powers to ensure delegations are used appropriately and to keep members advised of progress.

The council also agreed to exclude the public from the meeting during consideration of this item, as it involved the likely disclosure of exempt information, as defined in Section 50A (4) and (5) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973¹. This information fell under paragraphs 9 and 12 of Part 1 of Schedule 7A of the Act, relating to terms for a contract for acquisition or disposal of property or supply of goods or services, and instructions to counsel and advice received in connection with legal proceedings by or against the Council.

Public Sector Equality Duty

The council agreed to adhere to the Public Sector Equality Duty, as outlined in Section 149 of the Equality Act 2010², when making decisions. This duty requires the council to:

• Eliminate discrimination, harassment, and victimisation.
• Advance equality of opportunity between those who share a protected characteristic and those who do not.
• Foster good relations between those who share a protected characteristic and those who do not.

The council also agreed to consider the contents of any Integrated Impact Assessments provided and take them into account when reaching a decision.