Decision

Cllr Hill approved the decision to go into long term lease of five vehicles for the inspectors at the end of current contract from 1st April 2027. This ensures continuity of the statutory highway’s inspection service, as the Highway Inspection Officers require vehicles to discharge their statutory duties.

In accordance with the Council’s Constitution for decision making, Service Lead Tim Golabek made this decision and advised initiating the process, obtaining Spending Control Panel (SCP) approval, and seeking guidance from the Finance and Procurement teams.

Reasons for the decision

The current contract of vehicle lease ends on the 31st March 2027 therefore to continue the service beyond this period we need new long term lease contract which offers best value for money for the Highways Inspection officers to carry out their statutory duties from 1st April 2026. The vehicles must be Chapter 8 compliant (flashing beacons, reflective markings, etc.), therefore approval required

Alternative options considered

There are no other alternative options to consider. Do nothing means unable to provide statutory service. In terms of other alternatives, we are exploring long term lease as this is the only solution.