TD2272 - The Crematorium Maintenance

This contract is being awarded by way of a direct award in accordance with section 41 of the Procurement Act 2023, relying on the justification set out in Schedule 5 (absence of competition for technical reasons).

The contracting authority has established that only one supplier is capable of providing the required maintenance and support services for the existing ageing equipment. This is due to technical reasons, including but not limited to:

The supplier's exclusive technical knowledge and specialist expertise relating to the design, configuration, and operation of the equipment;

The use of proprietary systems, software, tools, parts, and intellectual property that are not accessible to alternative suppliers;

The absence of any reasonable or viable substitute that could deliver the services without unacceptable technical risk, disproportionate cost, or operational disruption.

A review of the market has confirmed that no alternative suppliers possess the necessary capability to maintain, repair, and support the equipment to the required standard. Introducing a new supplier would present a material risk to service continuity, safety, and asset integrity, particularly given the age and criticality of the equipment.

Accordingly, the conditions for direct award under Schedule 5 of the Procurement Act 2023 are met, as competition is absent for technical reasons and no reasonable alternative solutions exist. The award of this contract is therefore considered lawful, proportionate, and necessary to ensure continued operation and maintenance of essential equipment.