Decision details

Authorise the Corporate Director of Children, Schools and Families; in consultation with the Portfolio Holders for Children, Schools and Families & Property and Major Contracts; to:

- Select the preferred supplier through a competitive bidding process with the Harrow Transport Framework and award Transport Services contracts to the preferred suppliers on such terms as are agreed, acting in the best interests of the Council and service users.

- Implement the new transport services in accordance with the contract & other programme elements that support the operation of the services, reduce costs and promote independence.

- Consult on a new Transport Eligibility Policy, underpinning a broader range of transport options to be made available to service users.

RESOLVED:  That

(1)               the progress on the SNT3 Programme be noted;

(2)               the Corporate Director of Children and Families, in consultation with the Portfolio Holders for Children, Schools and Families, Property and Major Contracts, and Adult Social Care, Health and Wellbeing, be authorised to:

a)                 procure, select and award contracts to the preferred transport services suppliers on such terms as agreed, acting in the best interests of the Council and in doing so promoting local social enterprises and private organisations;

b)                 consult on a new transport eligibility policy;

(3)               a further progress report with a final draft policy be received for approval in Autumn 2013.

Reason for Decision:  The MTFS provided a need and a timeframe for delivering further savings of £540k from special transport.  The SNT3 programme would deliver the required savings whilst maintaining the service required by residents. 

To deliver savings within the timescales required delegated authority to identify best providers and award contracts to the best placed provider.

A broader, more flexible delivery would future proof the service for the direction of government policy.  The preferred option would seek solutions that were delivered by local suppliers and local social and community enterprises.

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected:  As set out in the report.

Conflict of Interest relating to the matter declared by Cabinet Member / Dispensation Granted:  None.