Agenda item

The Area Council Manager introduced the item, reminding Members that the Environmental, Educational Tidy Team service was due to end on 31^st March, 2021.  Previous discussions had indicated that Members were minded to commission a similar service from 1^st April, 2021, with this going out to tender.

The Members discussed the proposals regarding the timescales of contract and contract value.  Also noted was the proposed timescales for procurement with this going out to tender on 30^th November with the evaluation panel meeting to be held on 4^th January 2021.

Those present discussed the composition of the tender evaluation panel, including officer and Member involvement.

Members acknowledged the changes necessary due to the ongoing pandemic, with advice and support provided in Covid secure ways.  Members also heard about plans to include work experience as part of the contract.

Questions were raised about the need to advertise tenders in OJEU, and it was acknowledged that this was unclear as the transition period leaving the EU finished at the end of the year.  Advice would be taken from colleagues in procurement on this matter.

Those present discussed a proposal for funds to install fencing and barriers to help prevent damage from quad bikes entering the nature reserve at the side of Netherwood Road and alongside the River Dove.  Members discussed the issue of off-road bikes in some detail and were reminded that the Area Council had previously funded notices to enable enforcement. 

Members noted the need for all incidents to be reported, and it was suggested that the Area Council Manager discusses the issue with the Tasking Officer with feedback on the response being provided to Members.

RESOLVED:-

(i)           That approval be given to procure an Environmental, Educational Tidy Team Service from 1^st April 2021 for three years, at a maximum cost of £181, 721 per annum, let initially for 12 months with the ability to extend this for two further periods of 12 months subject to adequate performance, evidence of need and availability of funding;

(ii)          That the procurement timescales for the Environmental, Educational Tidy Team Service as indicated be supported;

(iii)        That Cllrs Andrews and Daniel Griffin be nominated to take part in the Tender Evaluation Panel for the Environmental, Educational Tidy Team Service on behalf of the Area Council;

(iv)        That the South Area Council Manager provides a Specification of Requirements and other necessary paperwork for the Environmental, Educational Tidy Team Service for consideration by Members, and that the Executive Director Communities be authorised to approve the specification and all other necessary paperwork following this consideration;

(v)          That approval be given for £1,180 from Environmental Enforcement income to be used to install fencing and barriers to tackle issues with quad bikes along the River Dove as outlined in 6.4 of the report.