The Cabinet considered a report of the Executive Director (Neighbourhoods and Environment) setting out the outcome of the early market engagement exercise in accordance with the Council decision of 24^th March 2022 and highlighted the key points of feedback.  The report also proposed the approach that should be set so that the formal procurement exercise can commence.

Resolved:

1. That the views of the market, be noted.

2. That the competitive dialogue process to be used for instructing bidders to submit two priced (outline) proposals at the end of Stage 1 of the process, be approved.  One option being a mandated full weekly collection service and the second being an option proposed by the bidder that they might feel better achieves the Council’s stated aims and objectives, specifically:

·       Recognise the declaration by the Council of a Climate Emergency in 2019 and the need to significantly reduce residual waste.

·       Comply with the Environment Act 2021 and its promulgated requirements for recycling (likely to be 65% by 2035) and other environmental matters and adaptability to further changes in legislation.

·       Satisfy the financial imperatives for the Council to ensure value for money principles are adhered to.

·       Follow the principles of the Waste Hierarchy.

·       Maximise the use of zero or low emission plant and fleet in the operation of the services.

·       Provide the best customer and digital experience for residents.

·       Consider the inclusion of a Commercial waste offering.

2. That a further report to the Cabinet comes forward at the appropriate time to select the service parameters (based on the results of the stage 1 submissions) for the second and final stage of the procurement process, resulting in each bidder being required to submit only one detailed, priced bid for final evaluation/award.

Reasons for decision:

As the market has stated it would be prepared to submit two priced outline proposals at the end of stage 1, this approach is proposed, rather than trying to agree the final model now without the associated costings.

Other options:

None.

Note: This is an Executive Function

Eligible for call-in to: Place Scrutiny Committee

Cabinet Member: Cllr Collins