To consider the future approach to the commissioning of services provided by Hoople

Firstly, the recommended approach ensures continued compliance with the European Union (EU) procurement regulations without the costs associated with a major re-procurement exercise. Secondly, the Teckal compliant entity would continue to have its primary focus as providing support services to the shareholders. This will help to ensure that these areas of service are in line with future needs and continue to provide value for money. This is crucial as the council will continue to transform itself and will have constant pressure on resources. Finally, the recommended approach will ensure Hoople continues its commercial development in line with the council’s aspiration to support the economic development of Herefordshire.

A review of potential commissioning options has been undertaken jointly with Hoople.  This identified a wide range of alternative options which are outlined within this report. They have been assessed against the key criteria outlined below to determine the recommended approach.  Whilst other options could be adopted, they are not recommended as they are not considered to meet the commissioning objectives to the same extent as the recommended option and would lead to higher costs of implementation, which would not represent value for money.