Decision details

·         Using the ESPO Framework, to enter into a call-off contract for professional services to design the permanent public realm scheme at Montague Place with Project Centre at a cost of £198,931.26 (exclusive of VAT). This includes all associated documents and information relating to RIBA stages 2 - 4.

Project Centre are a highly reputable design, engineering and landscape architecture consultancy, well known to Worthing Borough Council through the ongoing public realm works to Portland Road.

The main design works to provide plans for a permanent Montague Place (Phase 2) are fully funded through the creation of a £198,931.26 revenue fund within Worthing Borough Council funded by the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The published Infrastructure Investment Plan (IIP) associated with CIL distribution identifies public realm improvements as one of the priority spend areas. The use of the Worthing CIL monies towards Public Realm has been agreed at the Joint Strategic Committee. In reference to the Phase 2 allocation for Montague Place, this spend has received delegated authority approval at Joint Strategic Committee in July 2021.

Project Centre demonstrated, through the Eastern Shires Purchasing Organisation (ESPO) procurement framework, the ability to deliver based on quality of previous work and value for money required in the allocation of public funds. 

The Council considered a number of procurement options and to ensure continuity of design, and being considerate of continued value for money, it was agreed that a direct award via ESPO Framework 664_21 was the appropriate and compliant procurement route. A full evaluation exercise was undertaken by Officers regarding Project Centre’s proposal to ensure value for money, quality and it was within the budget threshold agreed by the Joint Strategic Committee in July 2021.