post
|
The local economy is in for a major boost with the launch of a new framework aimed at making sure that local companies are the first-choice for future council building projects. The ‘local first’ approach became reality when the Peterborough Contractors Framework was officially launched on February 10 2017 following initial interest from 75 companies from Peterborough and the wider local area. An assessment process and collaboration with the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce has resulted in nine local companies making the grade. They are now automatically eligible to bid for projects priced up to £5 million. With millions of pounds spent each year by the city council on building projects, such as expanding schools, keeping the work local is set to be a big bonus for both the economy and employment. The successful companies have agreed maximum fixed rates for the duration of the four-year framework which replaces the council’s use of national procurement frameworks. Councillor David Seaton, cabinet member for resources, said: “The benefits of the new framework are two-fold. Not only do we keep the work and money local, we’ve also simplified the tender process by ensuring that all companies meet strict procurement criteria to be selected for inclusion. This includes maximum fixed rates to ensure value for money.” The Chamber’s construction sector has been instrumental in the development of the new procurement policy. Martin Rayner, chair of the Chamber’s construction sector, commented: “This is a positive and welcome step forward for local construction businesses, design consultants, sub-contractors and suppliers. The framework has a pipeline of work ready to go and I look forward to seeing this come to fruition. My thanks go to my fellow sector members and the council who have worked hard to bring the opportunity to the community.” In recognition that some of the successful companies will need to sub-contract services for the bigger jobs, a ‘Meet the Contractors’ event is planned for Friday 21 April at Peterborough Rugby Club to open up opportunities for local smaller contractors and consultants too. Congratulations to the nine companies on the new framework: Contractors (Up to £1million contracts) Contractors (£1-2million contracts) Contractors (£2-5million contracts) Invitations to the Meet the Contractors event will be issued during March. For more information and to register for a place contact Helen Bosett at the Chamber on h.bosett@cambscci.co.uk |