Content

8.1

This report seeks approval to commission a new
tree contract for tree management works on all Council trees,
except those situated on the highway (street trees). It notes that
costs of remedial work have risen significantly in recent years due
to outbreaks of diseases such as Ash Dieback and Ramorum disease as
well as more frequent storm events.
 
Due to this increase in essential safety
related work, the aggregated spend is now well above the Public
Contract Regulations threshold and therefore, there is a
requirement to ensure future spend is compliant.

 

 

8.2

RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY: That the
Communities, Parks and Leisure Policy Committee approves the
commissioning of a Tree Contractor contract/s, for the future tree
work across the Council’s trees and woodlands (except
highways – which are managed via existing PFI agreement),
with an estimated contract value of up to £5 million and a
contract term of 4 years.

 

 

8.3

Reasons for
Decision

 

 

8.3.1

Due to this increase in essential safety
related work, the aggregated spend on tree work contracts is now
well above the Public Contract Regulations threshold and therefore,
there is a requirement to alter existing procurement practice and
to tender the contract to ensure the Council is acting
compliantly.

 

 

8.4

Alternatives
Considered and Rejected

 

 

8.4.1

Option 1: Carry out
the maintenance requirements with Council staff.
There is no available resource within our
existing staff team to fulfil this maintenance requirement.

 

 

8.4.2

Option 2: Continue
to place work out to quote outside of a framework agreement.
Given the current level of spend, this would
be in breach of the Public Contracts Regulations.

 

 

8.4.3

Option 3: Cease
maintenance of our trees.
Such a move would not meet the Council’s
duty of care and in the case of injuries or fatalities from falling
trees could leave the Council open to claims of negligence.