Purpose

To request approval to use a framework to procure an Employer’s Agent and Quantity Surveyor Consultancy Services for the South Kilburn District Heat Network (SKDHN).

Decision

That the Director of Property and Assets:

i)             Approves Brent Council’s participation in a call-off procedure under Lot 1 of Construction Professional Services, Crown Commercial Services Framework RM6165, in respect of an Employer’s Agent and Quantity Surveyor Consultancy Services for the SKDHN.

ii)            Confirms there is sufficient budgetary provision for the proposed call-off contract.

iii)           Approves inviting bids under the Framework Agreement on the basis of the pre-tender considerations.

iv)           Approves officers evaluating bids on the basis of the evaluation criteria.

Reasons for the decision

The Council requires an experienced Employer’s Agent and Quantity Surveyor to manage the delivery of the design and build elements of the SKDHN. It has been determined that the most appropriate means of procuring the services is by way of a mini-competition under Lot 1 of Construction Professional Services, Crown Commercial Services Framework RM6165.

Alternative options considered

Officers considered whether the Employer’s Agent and Quantity Surveyor services could be provided by the Council itself but concluded that it is best provided by an external provider.

Officers reviewed a range of procurement options, including conducting a tender process, but concluded that the use of the Framework is most appropriate given the reduction in time-scales, costs and resources involved.

Another alternative would be to appoint a provider for multidisciplinary technical consultancy services. Whilst the SKDHN scheme is multidisciplinary in nature, involving building surveying, civil, mechanical and electrical engineer input, it is felt that the quantity surveyor and employer agent role is best placed as an independent and distinct critical representative of the Council’s interest during these works.