Decision - Tendering for Special School Home to School Transport Services

To seek delegated authority for the Director, Children’s Services to
approve the letting of home to school transport contracts for two or possibly 4 special schools following the expiry of existing contracts, subject to a thorough procurement exercise that will comply with EU contract requirements and secure the best possible value for money

1.       That the completion of the re-tendering process for the two home to school transport contracts which finish at the end of the summer term 2010 be approved. 

2.       That delegated authority to confirm the award of the contracts be granted to the Director of Children’s Services, within whose Department the contract is managed.

1.       To ensure that suitable home to school transport provision is available to support schools and colleges.

2.       To ensure that the Council meets its legal obligations with regard to provision of home to school transport.

3.       To ensure that the service provided is of a good quality and cost effective.

4.       To award contracts in a timely fashion, allowing time for discussion with schools/colleges and parents about any changes in arrangements.

The Council does not have sufficient in house vehicle or driver capacity transport all those entitled to home to school transport.  Even the expansion of existing provision such as the Departmental Transport Service could not meet the transport need without an enormous programme of vehicle acquisition and the employment of drivers.  This would be very hard to justify as some vehicles would be idle except at morning and afternoon school delivery and pick up times.  It would also be hard to employ drivers who would be prepared to work a split shift at school times only.