Decision details

To procure an agent to assist in the disposal of the Municipal Offices (MO) through the CCS framework .

A large number of Agents have approached the Council and expressed a desire to represent the Council in its disposal of the MO, which was fuelled by Media coverage of the Council’s disposal intensions. The Municipal Offices is an unrivalled opportunity and is likely to draw local, regional and national (maybe international) interest.
A ‘Open Tender Route’ was discounted in favour of a Framework approach. Frameworks offered fast access to vetted suppliers due to prequalifying criteria requirements and clear contractual precedents. Frameworks provide a streamlined option in which the Council can have confidence and still allow for competition.
The Council reviewed available Frameworks that met the service provision needed. Factors considered included; ease of process, accessibility, pricing methodology, service delivery provisions that protect the Council and confidence that an appropriate level of competition could still be achieved.
Crown Commercial Services Framework (Lot 1) was thought the most suitable as it met the Councils criteria. The ultimate goal is to strike a balance between managing high interest efficiently and ensuring fairness in the allocation of the opportunity. This approach should be reflected in our communications by providing an upfront responsive approach, combined with clear messaging, to help the Council achieve its objective and manage expectations.

Open Tender – discounted due to the volume of interest from agents is high. Open Tender evaluation and selection process would be challenging to manage effectively and efficiently. Additionally, the requirement for the need for bespoke documentation and compliance steps requires a lengthier and more intensive process that adds complexity. Frameworks already offer ready checked suppliers and a ‘master agreement’.
Other Frameworks – The Council has determined that the CCS Framework provides the desired level of pre checked suppliers and is a good fit in terms of the service provision which meets the projects specific requirements, meets the Councils needs in terms of compliance, whilst still fostering fair competition.
Direct award – discounted due to the level of interest of appropriately qualified, knowledgeable professional organisations represented on the CCS Framework. The goal is to strike a balance between managing high interest efficiently and ensuring fairness in the allocation of the opportunity.
Proceeding inhouse – the benefit of real time market knowledge and market influence is best represented by a suitable agent who is much more likely to identify a broader range of suitable buyers. The Council needs to enhance the visibility of the opportunity and attract attention at multiple levels and markets to optimise the outcome.