URL: https://democracy.wirral.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=6241

Decision Maker: Assistant Director: Property and Investment

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose: This report seeks approval from the Chief Regeneration Officer for a 12-month extension of the Wirral Business Support Service contract, valued at £255,000. The proposed extension will run from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027 and will be funded through the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Local Growth Fund. Acceptance of the Grant Funding Agreement will be completed by the Section 151 Officer in line with the Council’s financial governance requirements. The Local Growth Fund offers an opportunity to sustain the business support and intelligence functions that underpin Wirral’s economic growth. The Business Support Service provides business intelligence that informs regeneration and investment priorities, while ensuring continuity of support for local SMEs that would otherwise face disruption if the contract ends on 31 March 2026. Extending the existing contract enables the Council to meet grant funding timescales, which do not allow for the lead-in period required for re-procurement or redesign of the service. The proposed extension represents the most efficient and compliant route to deliver the required outcomes within the funding and delivery timeframe. This report supports delivery of the Wirral Plan 2023–2027: Wirral Working Together, under Delivery theme 4: People focused regeneration, and aligns with the priorities of Wirral’s Economic Strategy 2021-2026. This decision affects all wards and is a key decision.

Content: The Assistant Director for Property and Investment approves:   (1)  the extension of the Wirral Business Support Service contract delivered by Wirral Chamber of Commerce and Industry for a 12?month period from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027, at a value of £255,000; and   (2)  that the above decision be deemed urgent and therefore not subject to the procedure re-consideration.      

Date of Decision: March 30, 2026