The Portfolio Holder Decisions/Leader Decisions meeting on Friday 21 June 2024 focused on the approval to proceed with the procurement of winter salt. The decision was made to use the Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation (ESPO) Framework Contract for this purpose.

Approval to Proceed with Procurement - Winter Salt

Councillor Peter Butlin, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Finance and Property, approved the use of the Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation (ESPO) Framework Contract for the provision of winter salt. The Executive Director for Resources, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Transport Planning, was authorised to enter into all necessary agreements under the ESPO Framework Contract.

Reasons for the Decision

The decision was driven by the statutory obligations under Section 41 of the Highways Act 1980, which mandates highway authorities to maintain highways and ensure safe passage during winter conditions. Following the severe winter of 2009/10, guidance recommended maintaining a minimum stock level of over 12,000 tonnes of salt across Warwickshire depots to ensure readiness for winter.

Supplier and Contract Details

The ESPO Framework 220_24, recently re-tendered for a four-year period, was chosen due to its alignment with Warwickshire County Council's requirements. The sole supplier under this framework is Compass Minerals, based in Cheshire. This decision was deemed more cost-effective and time-efficient compared to conducting an independent procurement process.

Financial Implications

The estimated cost for the winter season 2024/25 is £700,000, with the total cost over the contract's duration expected to be around £2,800,000. Detailed pricing information can be found in Appendix 1.

Environmental Implications

The report noted that there were no environmental implications associated with this decision.

For further details, the public minutes and the signed decision document provide comprehensive information on the meeting and the decision taken.