Purpose

The
opportunity to create an extension to the existing Cherry Tree
Allotments has arisen and an initial design was provided by
Southern Green in discission with Watford Borough Council (WBC) and
the Cherry Tree Allotment and Garden Association (CTAGA). This
design is of the quality and affordability that works for the CTAGA
and the budget available to WBC and Southern Green can mobilise to
have the works completed by February 2027. Southern Green have
already worked with the site so have expertise and knowledge of the
site as well as the skills and the workforce to deliver within a 12
month timeframe.
The works are below the UK Procurement Threshold of
£5,372,609 and a direct award can be made.  The exemption is requested using exceptional
circumstances due to the clear synergy between the existing
supplier and a need to complete the works by February 2027 to
enable the allotments to come in to use and the funding used within
the budget year.  The total value of the
contract is £550,000.

Decision

Approved on the basis of the exceptional
circumstances outlined in the report.

Alternative options considered

Direct Award due to exceptional
circumstances