Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: April 17, 2025

Purpose: To allow Environmental Management to work with STAR procurement to populate a framework of qualified contractors to be used for tree work across the borough.

Content: The Cabinet considered a report of the Director of Economy and Place, which sought approval of a framework agreement of tree related services.   The Play Pitch Programme & Project Development Officer was in attendance to present the information and to address the questions and the comments of the Cabinet Members.   The Officer informed that the framework agreement for tree related services would allow Environmental Management (EM) to continue managing the council’s tree stock and providing tree related operation services throughout the borough. This would include the felling of dangerous trees, pruning operations, the control and monitoring of Ash Dieback and replacement planting of trees on council managed land across the whole borough.   Resolved: 1.    That the report be noted and it be agreed to procure a new framework agreement for tree related services including contractors who meet the criteria to carry out arboricultural operations across the borough. The framework would be set up by EM and STAR Procurement, the Council’s procurement partner; 2.    That the £50k savings against the tree maintenance contract from 2026/27 be noted; 3.    That authority to procure be delegated to the Director of Economy and Place in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Climate Change and Environment; 4.    That the Assistant Director (Legal and Governance – Monitoring Officer) be authorised to prepare and execute associated legal documentation in accordance with the Council’s Constitution; 5.    That delegated authority be given to the Director of Economy and Place in consultation with the relevant portfolio holder to award and sign any associated contracts.   Reason for decision: The course of this action would allow for Environmental Management to provide essential services for the residents of the borough of Rochdale in relation to all tree work and tree health.   Alternatives considered and rejected: Not to have in place a framework agreement for tree related services would impede the ability of the Council to manage the health of the tree stock across the borough and the probability of litigation against the council would be increased. Environmental Management had been successfully using a framework for a number of years. The frame work was populated with a number of contractors that can be called upon to carry out different contracts or operations in relation to tree work. It gave better value and flexibility than going to single contractors for individual contracts.