The Projects and Procurement Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 19 May 2026 to discuss a range of important matters, including the extension of a highways maintenance contract, strategies for addressing street homelessness, and the procurement of drug and alcohol detoxification services. The committee also reviewed the forward plan and received an update on the Commercial, Change & Portfolio Delivery Risk Register.

Extension of Highways Maintenance and Repairs Contract

The sub-committee was scheduled to consider a report recommending the extension of the Highway Construction & Maintenance Term Contract with FM Conway for a further five years, from June 2027. The report highlighted FM Conway's consistently high performance, adherence to Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and collaborative approach since the contract began in June 2022. The report noted that FM Conway has demonstrated effective cost management and exemplary workmanship, with rates remaining below typical industry standards. The recommendation to extend the contract aims to ensure continuity of service delivery, sustained performance, and effective forward planning, while mitigating potential cost increases associated with a full retender in the current volatile market. The report also detailed various enhancements to the service that would be implemented if the contract is extended, including revised KPIs and enhanced sustainability requirements.

Street Homelessness Outreach and Support Service

A joint report from the Chamberlain and the Executive Director of the Department of Community and Children's Services outlined the proposed procurement strategy for a new Street Homelessness Outreach and Support Service. The report sought approval for an Open Procedure procurement under the Procurement Act 2023, with an evaluation criteria ratio of 55% Quality, 15% Responsible Procurement, and 30% Price. The estimated contract value is up to £8.3 million over a core term of three years, with an optional extension of two further years. The new service aims to integrate existing outreach, temporary accommodation support, and long-term casework services under a single contract, offering flexibility to adapt to changing needs and funding opportunities. The report highlighted a significant rise in street homelessness in the City of London over the past five years, underscoring the need for a responsive and adaptable service.

Pan London Substance Misuse Programme - Inpatient Detoxification and Stabilisation Beds

The sub-committee was due to consider a report recommending the approval to undertake an Invitation to Tender (ITT) exercise for drug and alcohol inpatient detoxification provision across London. The estimated total value of the contract is £7.9 million over three years, with a proposed commencement date of January 2027. The City of London Corporation acts as the lead commissioner for the Pan-London Substance Use Programme, funded by protected drug and alcohol funding within the Public Health Grant and local authority banked reserves. The current contract with Guys and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust (GSTT) was due to end on 31 March 2026, necessitating a new procurement to secure provision. The report recommended a competitive procurement under Regulation 11 of the Health Care Services (Provider Selection Regime) Regulations 2023, with a weighted evaluation of 55% for technical response, reflecting the need for high clinical quality for clients with complex needs.

Commercial, Change & Portfolio Delivery Risk Register Update

The sub-committee received an update on the risk management activities within the Chamberlain's Commercial, Change and Portfolio Delivery (CCPD) Division. The report indicated that the division was managing one AMBER Corporate Risk, CR33: Project portfolio strategic impact and/or financial value. Current mitigation strategies for this risk include embedding the P3 framework, strengthening financial oversight, monitoring funding assumptions, and improving governance and accountability. The report also detailed departmental risks, including Resistance to Transformation and Change (Change Fatigue) (CHB 005) and Inconsistent application of the internal control environment (CHB 003), along with the actions being taken to address them.

Forward Plan of the Sub-Committee

The sub-committee was scheduled to review its forward plan for the upcoming year, as reported by the Chamberlain. This would provide an overview of future reports and discussions planned for the committee.