Issue - meetings

Background:

This report sought permission to award the procurement of the delivery of various SEND transport routes.

Following a mini-competition, 10 submissions were received from framework members, which were subsequently evaluated. Through this exercise, it was identified that the incumbent remained competitive and their annual rate, remained roughly £180k less than the next lowest bids.

The report therefore recommended to make a direct award to the incumbent provider who was currently transporting approximately 400 children and young people.

An Exempt Appendix to the report set out details of the proposed contracts to be awarded.

The Council’s decision to award these contracts would be subject to observing the procurement standstill period of a minimum of 10 days in accordance with the requirements of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015. The Council would be unable to conclude any contracts before the end of the standstill period.

Reasons:

Award of the contract will ensure the local authority meets its statutory duty to put in place arrangements for the provision of home to school travel assistance and transport for children and young people who meet the published eligibility criteria.