Purpose

Contract needed to reprovision allotment plots on Parkhill Allotment

Decision

For the reasons set out in this report, the Corporate Director has decided:

Commence a procurement process to appoint suitably qualified supplier(s) to supply and install the materials to replace 152 individual allotment beds across 38 plots as well as various infrastructure improvements to make the site more accessible.  The contract is anticipated to start from October 2026 with an expected duration of 4 to 6 months and is anticipated to have an estimate value of up to £235,000.00 (excluding VAT).

Alternative options considered

“Do nothing” – this is not a feasible option as the allotment site has deteriorated to the point where several plots are not fully usable any longer and means that we will not be able to deliver our statutory duties and will not meet the required Health & Safety standards indefinitely.

“In house provision” – the services cannot be provided in house for the reasons mentioned above. It was tried unsuccessfully to recruit enough staff to provide this service alongside the normal grounds maintenance team.