The Leadership Team of Kensington and Chelsea Council is scheduled to convene on Thursday, 28 May 2026. The primary focus of the meeting will be the proposed award of a significant works contract for the refurbishment of Barandon Walk, Hurstway Walk, and Testerton Walk.

Procurement of a Works Contractor for Barandon Walk, Hurstway Walk and Testerton Walk

A key item on the agenda is the proposed contract award for refurbishment works at Barandon Walk, Hurstway Walk, and Testerton Walk, located on the Lancaster West Estate. This report seeks approval to award a construction contract to Amber Construction Services Ltd for an estimated value of £74,784,973.20 (excluding VAT). The works are intended to improve thermal comfort, energy efficiency, and fire safety for 367 homes. This contract is a crucial phase in the Council's long-term programme to transform the Lancaster West Estate, aiming to ensure all tenanted homes in the Walkways blocks meet the Decent Homes Standard by 2030. The proposed works include the installation of new triple-glazed windows, external wall insulation, balcony refurbishment, enhanced fire safety measures, and upgrades to mechanical and electrical systems. The report details a comprehensive procurement process, including a two-stage approach involving a Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA) with Amber Construction Services. The integration of Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) and heat network elements into a single contract is highlighted as a measure to reduce interface risk and minimise disruption to residents. The report also addresses financial implications, including a virement from the Notting Dale Heat Network budget and the establishment of a project contingency sum. Extensive resident engagement and co-design processes have informed the scope of works, with a significant majority of responding residents expressing support for the proposals. The report also outlines legal, safety, and equalities implications, with a detailed Equality Impact Assessment (EqIA) and Safety Impact Assessment (SIA) included to address potential impacts on residents and ensure a safe and inclusive delivery of the refurbishment programme. The proposed contract award is presented as the recommended option to fulfil the Council's commitments to residents in a timely manner.