Decision details

This report seeks approval for the direct appointment of the Architect Levitt Bernstein to undertake architectural appraisal studies for the redevelopment of the Chocolate Factory (Phase 2 Mallard Place) site located at Coburg Road, Wood Green N22 6T

Decision Maker: Interim Head of Developement

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: No

Is subject to call in?: No

Decision:

Request to waive Contract Standing Order 8.03 as allowed under CSO 10.01.2 d (iii) for the appointment of Levitt Bernstein.

Reasons for the decision:

The Chocolate Factory (Phase 2 Mallard Place) has been identified as an important Council owned site for the delivery of circa 150-200 affordable homes as part of a mixed-use redevelopment. A comprehensive or phased redevelopment of the site will make a meaningful contribution to the Council’s strategic housing aims of 3,000 new Council homes by 2032.

Levitt Bernstein has already undertaken a detailed capacity study for the site (February 2021) and has detailed knowledge of the site constraints as well as the Council’s ambitions for the Wood Green Cultural Quarter. This appointment will update this initial study.

Alternative options considered:

A mini procurement competition could take place. This option was rejected as it would mean undue delay in the analysis of this site and Levitt Bernstein has already (February 2021) undertaken initial, yet detailed, analysis of the site. The appointment is only for architectural appraisal of the site and it’s anticipated a competitive procurement exercise will be undertaken for the later RIBA work stages – i.e. preparation of a planning application and award of a building contract.

The Council could decide not to award this contract. This option is not recommended because it would mean we could not appraise and consult on this strategically important site.

Publication date: 20/02/2024

Date of decision: 07/12/2023

Accompanying Documents: