Issue details

HRA tower blocks refurbishment and retrofit programme - authorisation for new contract value

The HRA Tower block Refurbishment and Retrofit Programme is a hugely exciting project that is being delivered through a blended funding approach.

 

The project will deliver transformational  works to 5 of the council’s 6 tower blocks. The works include:

  • Replacement of the external wall insulation (EWI) 
  • Retrofit measures to improve the energy efficiency
  • Refurbishment works to improve structural and fire safety
  • Cyclical and refurbishment works 

 

In March 2023, Cabinet gave authority to proceed with the programme of work valued at an estimated £19.9 Million.  The purpose of this report is to seek authority for the council to increase the value of the overall project to £40.34 million, incorporating funding from the council’s Housing Revenue Account Major Repairs Reserve together with external funding from both the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund and the Building Safety Fund. 

 

This report seeks authority for the Cabinet to:

 

  1. Approve an increase in the scope of the project to include emergency health and safety work.
  2. Note the increase in the value of the overall project, in line with the approved capital programme.
  3. Approve the letting of a Design and Build contract with Mears Ltd to deliver the main Tower Block Refurbishment and Retrofit Programme, as set out in this report.

Decision type: Key

Reason Key: Significant effect on communities;

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Wards affected: Central Harbour Ward; Dane Valley Ward; Eastcliff Ward; Newington Ward;

Notice of proposed decision first published: 25/03/2024

Decision due: 16 Jul 2024 by Overview & Scrutiny Panel

Decision due: 25 Jul 2024 by Cabinet

Lead member: Councillor Helen Whitehead, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing Cllr-Helen.Whitehead@thanet.gov.uk

Lead director: Bob Porter

Contact: Sally O'Sullivan, Head of Tenant and Leaseholder Services Email: sally.o'sullivan@thanet.gov.uk.

What the decision will mean: Authorisation to increase the value of the JCT Design and Build contract due to inflation, emergency fire safety works and enhanced specification for EWI.

Decisions

Agenda items

Documents

  • OSP report  
  • Cabinet report