Small firms get crack at big time

More than 200 businesses have heard first- hand about new plans to open up public sector contracts to smaller traders.

South Ayrshire Council unveiled details of a programme that will pave the way for local companies to become suppliers.

As part of a new £ 4 million framework agreement, the council is looking to identify contractors with the necessary “skills, capability, resources and experience” to provide reactive minor works to support work to the council’s social housing stock for up to four years.

The framework includes opportunities for suppliers in eight separate lots ( builders, plumbing, tarmac, roofing, glazing, joinery, painting, and plastering) with a maximum of four contractors to be appointed for each lot.

The news comes at a time when a concerted effort is being made to make it easier for smaller, local companies to secure public sector contracts.

Councillor Brian McGinley, the council’s economic spokesman, said smaller firms are getting a chance.

He said: “Our businesses provide the backbone to the local economy and we’re committed to promoting opportunities for smaller companies to secure public sector contracts.

“We know that many business owners don’t feel they can compete with bigger rivals but by taking a strategic approach we’re opening up the system and supporting suppliers across South Ayrshire.

“The feedback from the recent event was extremely positive and we’ve already heard from a number of local businesses.”