Purpose

AGS one has provided reduced rate pest control treatments to residents (of Thanet, Dover and Folkestone & Hythe districts via a joint contract) and a highly professional and responsive service for the last three years. A one year extension with all three authorities, subject to a fee adjustment representing a 76% increase in pricing, has been proposed.

Whilst this is a significant price increase, it should be noted that no fee adjustments (in line with the contract terms) were requested in the previous 3 years of the contract and the original agreed pricing was several multiples lower than the other bidders during the original contract tender exercise. Following negotiations, a 20 % discount will also be applied for those in receipt of qualifying benefits, which will be administered by AGS One.

In addition to pest control services for Thanet residents, AGS One also provides free Vectobac treatments (non-statutory) for mosquitos in Pegwell Bay, when instar larvae levels are exceeded. In addition, AGS One have been able to offer valuable technical advice to EH officers in complex cases. Consideration has therefore been given by TDC (and DDC, FHDC) to utilise the one year extension, with the commensurate fee increases (see table in Appendix 1).

Decision

Agreed a one year extension, with fee adjustment, for the Pest Control Contract with AGS One from 1st October 2025. The new fees will be added to TDCs fees and charges.

Reasons for the decision

The Pest Control Contract is required to ensure continued reduced rate pest control treatments for Thanet residents; which helps to increase the update of treatments (including at affordable prices for those in receipt of benefits) and prevent wider infestations within the district (in particular of rats, mice and bedbugs which is of concern to Members).

As stated above, the contract includes the provision for free mosquito treatments in Pegwell Bay which would also be at risk should the extension not be agreed. The joint authorities are all in agreement with this approach.

Alternative options considered

The alternative to explore a full tender exercise at this stage, instead of utilising the extension provision (with fee variation), would be unlikely to improve pricing for residents based and could result in the loss of the existing contractor; and additional free services provided as part of the current contract. All three authorities have therefore decided to pursue the contract extension, with a fee variation, from October 2025.