URL: https://sandwell.moderngov.co.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1154

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: To consider the award a contract for superimposed road markings, specialist surfacing and studs’

Content: Approval was sought for the award of contract for superimposed road markings, specialist surfacing and studs following completion of a compliant and competitive tender process in collaboration with Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council and City of Wolverhampton Council, which would support general maintenance of new and existing road markings around Sandwell.   Reason for Decision Road users and the wider community placed a high value on keeping traffic moving safely around Sandwell. Ensuring road markings were visible and understandable was vital for road safety. They communicate important information to road users, help them safely navigate the road network and highlight upcoming hazards. Failure to adequately maintain road markings could result in accidents, avoidable congestion, consequent adverse economic and social impacts, public dissatisfaction and significant reputational damage.   As the Local Highway Authority, the Council had a statutory duty to ensure the road was maintained in a safe and useable manner. To meet this duty, routine maintenance of road markings was undertaken across Sandwell. This incorporated both general road markings and those road markings which enforced legal restrictions such as double yellow lines and red routes.   The road marking contract was also used for the installation of advisory spaces for disabled badge holders which were vital assistance for some residents. The contract was a collaborative award jointly with Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council and City of Wolverhampton Council for all authorities to benefit from economies of scale and reduced tendering costs.   Alternative Options Considered Option 1 – Procure and award a contract solely for Sandwell Council. Each of the three participating authorities had similar requirements and needed in place contractual arrangements for these activities. Procuring and awarding a contract individually would be less efficient and likely lead to less advantageous commercial terms. This option was dismissed.   Resolved:-   (1)          that delegated authority is given to the Executive Director – Place to award a four-year contract for the provision of Road Markings, Specialist Surfacing and Studs; for general maintenance of new and existing road markings around the Sandwell;   (2)          that delegated authority is given to the Service Director – Governance (Monitoring Officer) to execute any documentation and taken any actions necessary to give effect to delegations granted at (1) above.      

Date of Decision: December 10, 2025