Decision details

1.    Approves the procurement strategy as set out in this report for the procurement of transport and accommodation services.

2.    Approves the award of a contract to Corporate Travel Management (NORTH) Ltdfrom the 1 March 2025, for a period of four years with a total spend of up to £1.1m.  

The Local Authority has a duty to promote contact, under Section 34 of the Children’s Act 1989. Section 34 places a duty on local authorities to allow the child in its care, reasonable contact with their parents and 'other persons' prescribed within s34 (1) of the act.

1.             Option 1 –Direct award a contract to Corporate Travel Management (NORTH) Ltd through the Crown Commercial Service framework for Travel, Transport, Accommodation and Venue Solutions - recommended

The award of a contract through the Travel, Transport, Accommodation and Venue Solutions Framework will regularise service delivery and provide a more consistent, transparent approach. The CCS provides negotiated programmes for air, accommodation and rail, including price match to ensure the Local Authority has access to the best available rates driving value for money across the service. There is one provider within Lot 1 and there is no guaranteed minimum spend values.

2.             Option 2 – Run an open procedure to establish an H&F framework – not recommended

The council’s volumes are not sufficiently high enough to drive competition within the market, posing a risk to increased costs and lack of sufficient coverage to meet the individual booking requirements. This option is therefore not recommended.

3.             Option 2 - Do nothing - not recommended

If the Framework is not procured, the service will continue to use spot purchasing for this delivery area. This includes higher rate booking fees and is not in line with the new Procurement Regulation coming into effect in 2025.