Contractor appointed to revamp homes
A NEW contractor has been appointed to deliver multi-million pound improvements to borough council homes in Charnwood.
Property maintenance firm Fortem has been awarded a five-year contract by Charnwood Borough Council which says the partnership will make council homes even better in the future.
The new contract came into place this month following a rigorous tendering process which involved tenants as well as staff and councillors.
Coun Leigh Harper-Davies, the council’s lead member for performance of major contracts, said: “This is not only one of the council’s largest contracts but one of its most important as it makes such a difference to people as we are talking about improving the quality of their homes.
“We based the contract largely on quality and Fortem were able to demonstrate a big commitment to that as well as customer engagement, something which is also important to us.
“I was also pleased to involve tenants in the selection process as it is important they have a voice and are listened to and that collaborative working is something we pride ourselves on.
“It’s now up to Fortem to deliver on this contract which I am sure they will do.”
Coun Paul Mercer, lead member for housing, added: “This contract means hundreds more bathrooms, kitchens and heating systems will be installed providing a better standard of living for people.
“I welcome this continued investment and look forward to seeing the work being delivered to the high standards we require, not just in terms of the installations but also to show that we care for the customer.”
Mick Williamson, managing director at Fortem said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with Charnwood Borough Council, not only to improve their housing but also the quality of people’s lives.
“Working in communities is at the heart of our business and we can’t wait to begin engaging with the local residents.”
Trish Edwardes, a tenant and
chair of the Housing Management Advisory Board which promotes tenants and leaseholder engagement, was on the project board for selecting the new contractor.
Trish and Charnwood Housing Residents’ Forum member Craig Jordan visited other areas where bidders were already working on council home improvements and Craig took part in interviews with bidders at the council offices.
Trish said: “We wish Fortem a happy and constructive future working in partnership with the council.”
The estimated contract value is around £18m over five years and Fortem will install a number of kitchens, bathrooms, heating systems and doors for the council.
Fortem is based in Hertfordshire but will be setting up a base in Charnwood.