Decision details

To enter into a Direct Award contract with Plexal for the purposes of advice and support on Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and submission of an interim Business Case at a cost of £35,000.

Plexal was appointed to assist with the interim business case proposal for 2 Unitary Authorities which had a 6-week timeline to be submitted in March 2025.

The interim business case proposal for two Unitary Authorities was based on wider public sector reform and Plexal has demonstrated previously their specialised expertise and innovative solutions and quality outputs which Cheltenham Borough Council have been pleased with.

The Council could have done the work solely in-house, but given the urgency and short-timeframe available, alongside already stretched capacity, Plexal were considered as the only viable alternative.

Plexal has been working with CBC for a number of years and are a highly trusted company, who understand the organisations needs and requirements.

An all Member briefing was provided by the Chief Executive before Full Council on 21st February 2025 on Devolution and LGR with a commitment to present the interim Business Case to Council for approval in March 2025.