Decision details

Consideration was given to a report of the Chief Executive which sought to provide an update on the current position of the Creating a Better Place project and sought approval of an amendment to the contract strategy which has further to the outcome of investigation works undertaken.

Following approval at Cabinet in February 2022, of the Full Business Case and a pre-construction services agreement with Wilmot Dixon Construction for the Spindles redevelopment, it was recommended that the redevelopment was contractually split into two separate project and contract workstreams;

Project/Contract Workstream 1:

·         Demolition of TJ Hughes

·         Construction of the new market and events space

·         Roof improvement works

Project/Contract Workstream 2

Redevelopment of internal spaces within the centre (Workspace and Archives).

There were two main benefits to this approach in relation to both the programme for delivery and reduced inflation cost risks caused by the current market conditions which could impact the scheme.

Funding for the Spindles project had already been approved through the Council’s Capital Programme and associated Creating a Better Place Strategic Framework. Town Deal funding had also been secured for two projects which fell within the Spindles remit: Tommyfield Market and a flexible office space.

Following feedback from staff, residents, market traders and business community from engagement exercises throughout the lockdown period, further extensive consultation was taken between October to December 2021.

All procurement exercises had ben undertaken in full compliance with the Public Procurement Law and the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules. The Procure Partnerships Construction Framework was selected for the main redevelopment works with the detail provided in the report Cabinet considered in February 2022.

Since the previous Cabinet report, the appointment of Wilmott Dixon Construction in March 2022 has allowed significant progress to be made on the project and the planning application for the redevelopment received planning approval on the 8^th June 2022.

Options/alternatives considered

Options to be considered at Item 13 of the agenda.

RESOLVED – That the Cabinet would consider the commercially sensitive information at Item 13 of the agenda before making a decision.