Decision

RESOLVED

KEY DECISION

That the Executive delegate authority to the Executive Director of Place in consultation with the Executive Member for Housing, Health and Leisure to procure, negotiate, award, and enter into contract(s) for the supply of parts and materials for the two Housing Maintenance Depot Stores.

Reasons for Recommendations – To accord with legislative requirements placed upon the Council as a Landlord, by agreeing to the proposed contract procurements. This approach ensures a compliant and efficient procurement process, delivers better value for money, and supports continued investment in the Council’s housing stock for the benefit of tenants across North Northamptonshire.

Alternative Options Considered – The option of taking no action and not procuring new parts and materials contracts has been considered and discounted. Should the Council fail to establish appropriate contractual arrangements, it would be in breach of relevant public procurement legislation and internal governance requirements, as it would not have compliant mechanisms in place to source essential goods. This would expose the Council to significant legal, financial, and reputational risks.

Without these contracts, the Council would be unable to lawfully procure the parts and materials necessary to carry out repairs, maintenance, and improvements across its housing portfolio, which comprises over 8,000 properties. This would result in an inability to meet statutory obligations relating to housing standards, tenant safety, and property upkeep. Consequently, service delivery would be severely disrupted, potentially leading to deterioration of housing conditions, increased reactive repair costs, and heightened risk to tenant wellbeing.

In addition, the absence of compliant procurement arrangements could lead to audit challenges, regulatory scrutiny, and possible financial penalties. For these reasons, the “do nothing” option is not considered viable, and the procurement of new parts and materials contracts is essential to ensure continuity of service, legal compliance, and effective asset management.