Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: March 10, 2026

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED: Cabinet; a)                 Approved the procurement process for the Income Management System contract via GCloud software framework b)                 Delegated authority to the WNC Chief Finance Officer in consultation with Cabinet Member for HR & Corporate services to award the contract on behalf of West Northamptonshire Council and its Shared Services partners to the best fit supplier.   REASONS RESOLVED: 1)     Expiry of the incumbent contract - The current Income Management System contract expires on 31 July 2026 and cannot be extended further under the Public Contracts Regulations 2023. A compliant procurement process is therefore required to ensure continuity of this business critical service. 2)     Undertaking a compliant procurement via the CCS GCloud framework represents the most proportionate, low risk and cost effective route. This approach safeguards service continuity, maintains compliance, and supports the shared service operating model across partner councils.   ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS: To address the key issue faced by the partner authorities, the following options have been considered:   Do Nothing - The Council could choose to do nothing; however, this is not a viable option. The contract supports the fulfilment of statutory obligations, which require the continued provision of an Income Management System.   Enter into a new contract – The Council could choose to procure a new contract via CSS G-cloud 14 framework which would be compliant, low-risk, and cost-effective.