URL: https://meetings.cotswold.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=519

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: The current agreement with the incumbent service provider for the delivery of waste and related services terminates on 31st March 2027. This report considers the proposal from the incumbent provider, alongside the alternative options available to the Council.

Content: The purpose of the report was to seek Cabinet approval to proceed with negotiations and to enter into a Common Service Agreement with Ubico Limited for the delivery of waste collection, street cleansing, and grounds maintenance services, with the new agreement proposed to replace the current contract which was due to expire on 31 March 2027.   Councillor Andrea Pellegram, Cabinet Member for Environment & Regulatory Services, introduced the report which described Cotswold District Council’s current Service Contract with Ubico Limited for waste collection, street cleansing, and grounds maintenance which was due to expire on 31 March 2027. Ubico had proposed replacing individual contracts with a Common Service Agreement across its shareholder authorities, providing a single contractual framework while allowing for local service specifications.   Given the scale of Local Government Reorganisation and the need to maintain service continuity, the Common Service Agreement (CSA) was described as a proportionate and flexible approach, with the CSA providing a shared contractual framework across shareholder authorities while allowing locally tailored service specifications.   It was noted that the approach supported service continuity, allowed for future flexibility in light of Local Government Reorganisation, and enabled novation to a new Unitary Authority if required.  Alternative delivery models were noted but, given the timing and scale of Local Government Reorganisation, continuation of the current delivery model was considered the most proportionate approach at this stage.   The recommendations were proposed by Councillor Andrea Pellegram and seconded by Councillor Mike Evemy.   RESOLVED that Cabinet agreed to : 1.    enter into a Common Service Agreement with Ubico as described in this report, and 2.    delegated authority to the Director of Communities and Place in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment and Regulatory Services to agree the final terms of the agreement with Ubico.   Voting record: 7 For, 0 Against, 0 Abstentions

Date of Decision: February 5, 2026