Agenda and draft minutes

STATEMENT OF THE REASONS FOR THE DECISION:

The purpose of the report was to consider plans for the removal, refurbishment and, where necessary, replacement of sections of the perimeter railings and gates at Leek Old Cemetery, Junction Road, Leek. The perimeter railings of Leek Cemetery were visibly in need of refurbishment       and, in particular, the removal and restoration of 5 gates and 40 metres of railings. The extent of the works identified that paintwork on the furniture had failed throughout, with corrosion evident.  In addition, hinges, dropbolts and other gate furniture was generally worn and in some areas component parts were missing and in urgent need of replacement.

ANY ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:

An alternative would be to attempt to clean and paint the items in situ. This would be an extremely difficult operation, at a reduced quality, and would result in far more disruption for the cemetery. The specialist welding would not be able to be done in this instance, therefore this would only be a temporary fix. (Not recommended)

A further option would be to do nothing. This would result in complete failure of the railings and gates due to corrosion, causing a safety issue and requiring full replacement at an increased cost. (Not recommended)

It is recommended that this project is undertaken as a full restoration and replacement programme of work by a specialist contractor procured through Alliance Environmental Services Ltd (Recommended)

DECISION:

1.    That the Portfolio Holder approved Alliance Environmental Services Ltd (AES) to complete a competitive exercise to source a suitable contractor to undertake the necessary works for the replacement and refurbishment of the permitter railings at Leek Old Cemetery.

2.    That an additional general fund capital programme budget of £50,000 was approved for completion of this work in addition to the revenue consequences outlined in the ‘Financial Considerations’.

A RECORD OF ANY CONFLICT OF INTEREST DECLARED:

None

A NOTE OF ANY DISPENSATION, IF GRANTED:

None