Decision details

For the Head of Housing Development to approve the implementation of Contract Standing Order 2.05.1n and 12.02 and award a contract to JJC Advisory Limited, for Housing acquisition specialist support through strategic and engagement with development partners for a period of 2 months from 1st February 2026.

The total cost over the life the contract (including any extensions) is £24,166

This service offers comprehensive cost consultancy, including financial appraisal, benchmarking, and cost assurance, to ensure schemes represent strong value for money across their lifecycle. This supports informed decision-making and robust governance throughout the acquisition and delivery process.

Design consultancy is also a core component, providing expert review and guidance to assess and enhance the quality of proposed developments. This includes evaluating design proposals against planning policy, housing standards, and place-making principles to ensure schemes deliver sustainable, well-designed homes that meet the needs of residents and the wider community.

Together, these integrated services support the Council in securing, assessing, and delivering affordable housing that balances quality, cost efficiency, and strategic fit.

We are currently pending restructures in the Finance and Resources directorate. Following the conclusion of the capital delivery restructure the option of a Housing Specialist resource with relevant skills and experience can be reviewed. In the meantime JJC Advisory have the relevant skills and experience required to allow the delivery of the current programme.

An alternative option to appoint permanently to the role has not been considered as historically it proved challenging to recruit the expertise with
local authority rates will attract candidates with required skill set, knowledge
and experience.

The Council could carry out this work internally. This option was rejected because the Council does not currently have the necessary in-house
experience or expertise.