The Leadership Team of Kensington and Chelsea Council met on Thursday 28 May 2026. The primary item scheduled for discussion was the procurement of a works contractor for the refurbishment of Barandon Walk, Hurstway Walk, and Testerton Walk.

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

The meeting was scheduled to consider the procurement of a works contractor for the refurbishment of Barandon Walk, Hurstway Walk, and Testerton Walk, located on the Lancaster West Estate. The report pack indicated that the proposed contract award to Amber Construction Services Ltd was for a value of £74,784,973.20 (excluding VAT). This contract would enable the appointment of a contractor to carry out construction works for 367 homes across these three locations.

The report detailed that the works comprise a comprehensive refurbishment programme, co-designed with residents, aimed at improving thermal comfort, energy efficiency, fire safety, and long-term building performance. This includes the installation of new triple-glazed windows, external wall insulation, balcony refurbishment, enhanced fire safety measures, and upgrades to mechanical and electrical systems. These works are described as a key phase in the Council's long-term programme to transform the Lancaster West Estate, following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, with the aim of delivering safer, warmer, and more energy-efficient homes. The report noted that 69% of households had participated in the co-design process, with 89% of responding residents expressing support for the proposals.

The report also outlined the procurement process, which involved a two-stage approach, including 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 was highlighted as a measure to reduce interface risk, improve programme certainty, and minimise disruption to residents. The proposed contract value was stated to be within the Lancaster West Lot 1 budget allocated within the current Housing Revenue Account business plan.

The recommendations included approving the exercise of the Main Works option within the existing PCSA and awarding the works contract to Amber Construction Services Limited. Further recommendations involved delegating authority for approving expenditure on provisional sums, project contingency, and contract variations to specific officers. The report also sought approval for a virement of funds from the Notting Dale Heat Network budget and an internal transfer for building control fees.

The report provided extensive background information on the existing homes and building infrastructure, detailing the scope of works, contractual arrangements, and the procurement process followed. It also addressed legal, safety, financial, environmental, human resources, consultation, and equalities implications of the proposed contract award. The Equality Impact Assessment (EqIA) for the Lancaster West Refurbishment Programme (Lot 1) was also included, detailing potential impacts on various resident groups and outlining mitigating actions. A Safety Impact Assessment (SIA) was also provided, assessing risks related to construction work, community impact, statutory building safety requirements, the working environment, and safeguarding of children and adults.