May 19 2010 | Andrea Klettner
Hertfordshire County Council has unveiled a scheme to make it easier for local businesses to win work.
The council will launch a one-step online portal, ŒSupply Hertfordshire, in September to advertise all tenders in one place.
It is hoped the system will cut costs for both the council and suppliers, who will receive free training on the system if required.
David Lloyd, executive member for resources and economic wellbeing, said: “We want to ensure we provide a level playing field so the size of a firm is not a barrier to being awarded work.
“Price and quality are major considerations when awarding contracts, but it is also crucial to take into account social, economic, environmental and ethical factors.”
The portal will rationalise regulations for contracts across the county. It includes plans for mandatory quotes from at least one local provider or third sector partner for each contract, and will ensure suitable tenders are broken down into more specific geographic areas and product service types.
A grant from the Regional Improvement and Efficiency Partnerships is funding the portal.
