Purpose

To seek Cabinet Member approval to an increase in the value of work.
 

Decision

That the Cabinet Member:

Approves the recommendation in the not for publication report.

Reasons for the decision

To enable delivery of the scheme in line with LUF criteria, protect associated funding allocations, manage risk, minimise project extensions and maximise efficiency in delivery.

Alternative options considered

Option 1: Do nothing - Not approving continued preparation through the extension of Stage 1 work will make it impossible to meet LUF timeframes, putting the Council at risk of clawback of the 10% proportion (£4.900m) already received to support early mobilisation and subsequent EMCCA funding. This option is not recommended.

Option 2: Pursue alternative funding arrangements - There is no fund currently identified that could replace the £49.600m LUF allocation. Pausing to pursue alternatives would undermine the delivery programme, could jeopardise success at Public Inquiry (at which confidence over Scheme funding will be tested) and may result in failure of the scheme to be delivered at all. This option is not recommended.

Option 3: Instruct the additional spend at risk and extend the Stage 1 contract to allow Galliford Try to maintain an appropriate delivery programme. This is the preferred Option.