Decision

To waive the request for waiver and award the contract to Vincents Holsworthy in relation to Purchase of a Kubota utv with funding from National Landscapes

Reasons for the decision

In accordance with paragraph 12 of the Council’s Contract Procedures Rules, quotations should be obtained from more than one supplier using a request for quotation (RFQ) and the quote evaluated as successful, in compliance with the evaluation criteria in the RFQ, should be accepted. In the alternative officers may consider running an open tender process in accordance with paragraph 13 of the Contract Procedure Rules.

I can confirm that, despite non-compliance with the requirements of paragraph 12.1 of the Contract Procedure Rules the award of this contract to the above supplier will be best value for the Council for the following reason(s):
Kubota have a network of dealers throughout the UK who supply their machinery. Vincents Tractors Ltd are Kubota’s dealer for the southwest and therefore closest for reactive and planned maintenance. Kubota is the preferred machine due to the safety features that other similar machines do not offer. If we are able to purchase the vehicle before the end of the financial year National Landscape will give North Devon Council 25% of the purchase price

Alternative options considered

I can confirm that I have sought all relevant procurement advice and consider that it is appropriate that this requirement be waived for the following reason:

- It is not appropriate in the circumstances for quotes to be obtained from more than one supplier