Decision details

Declarations of interest for this item:

None

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.    Approved the commencement of procurement exercise in accordance with Contract Standing Order (CSO) 2.01 b), for the selection of a contractor to deliver a new build development of 17 Council Homes at the site shown on the plan at Appendix 1 within Tiverton Estate, for an anticipated total contract and client contingency set out in the exempt Appendix 2 of this report.

2.    Approved the procurement of the contract via London Construction Programme (LCP) – Housing Framework.

Reasons for decisions

The site known as open space in front of 24-96 Tiverton Road with the Tiverton Estate, was approved by Cabinet on 21^st January 2020 to be included in the Council’s Housing Delivery programme. A design and access plan, aimed to supporting a planning application for the redevelopment of the site is being prepared by appointed Architects. The scheme is scheduled to be considered for approval at Planning Committee in Autumn 2025.

Financial appraisals supported by the independent cost consultant demonstrate that the scheme is viable and value for money can be achieved via the procurement route detailed in Section 6.3 of this report.

The site proposal will provide 17 much-needed affordable homes on Council-owned land, including two M4(3) wheelchair homes and family homes, with associated refuse stores, cycle stores, service space, amenity space and landscaping. These 17 homes will contribute to our aspiration to build 3000 Council homes by 2031.

The Council’s Contract Standing Order item 2.01.b) requires Cabinet approval to commence a procurement exercise for proposed contracts valued £500k or above.

Alternative options considered

We could choose not to proceed to a competitive tender and develop this site for housing purposes. However, this option was rejected as it does not support the Council’s commitment to deliver a new generation of Council homes, with associated public realm improvements.