The recommendation to extend the contract with JDi Solutions for the Opus Consult Planning Policy consultation system is based on the following key considerations:
1.Ease of use
The system is specifically designed to meet the requirements of Planning Policy consultations, offering a streamlined and intuitive interface without unnecessary complexity. This improves usability for both officers and members of the public.
2.Compliance with Standards
The system meets all relevant standards for data protection, cybersecurity, and accessibility. A Data Protection Risk Assessment has confirmed the platform as low risk, with built-in GDPR safeguards that reduce the potential for human error.
3.Value for Money
The annual cost is lower than comparable systems available through the G-Cloud 13 framework. The Council continues to benefit from a cost-effective solution that meets operational needs.
4.Proven Performance and Support
Over the past two years, JDi Solutions has demonstrated responsive and flexible support, particularly during high-profile consultations such as the Local Plan Review Issues and Options Consultation.
5.Procurement Compliance
The original procurement was conducted via the G-Cloud framework in accordance with the Council’s procurement rules. The proposed extension remains within the scope of the framework agreement.
6.Funded using existing budgets
The contract extension will be funded from existing budgets, with no additional financial pressure on the Council.
The system continues to meet both the legislative and operational requirements of the Planning Policy team and supports the Council’s commitment to accessible, transparent, and efficient public engagement.

Officer decision to agree a one-year extension to the contract with JDi Solutions Limited for the continued use of the Opus Consult Planning Policy consultation system. This extension is in accordance with the original contract procured via the UK Government’s G-Cloud 13 Framework (Lot 2: Cloud Software), and remains compliant with the Council’s Procurement Procedure Rules.
The Council regularly undertakes statutory and non-statutory consultations on Planning Policy documents and requires a reliable, accessible, and user-friendly platform to facilitate public engagement and manage consultation responses.
Opus Consult has demonstrated strong performance, ease of use for both officers and the public, and alignment with the Council’s consultation requirements. The system continues to offer good value for money and supports the Council’s commitment to inclusive, transparent, and efficient planning processes.

Option 1 - Extend the Contract
Extending the existing contract with JDi Solutions for one year allows the Council to continue benefiting from a proven, user-friendly, and cost-effective consultation system that meets all Planning Policy requirements
Option 2 - Do Nothing
Allowing the contract to expire without replacement would leave the Council without a digital consultation platform. This would necessitate manual processing of consultation responses, significantly reducing efficiency and limiting public engagement opportunities.
Option 3 - 3)Procure an Alternative System
A market comparison was undertaken via the G-Cloud 13 framework. While other systems were available, none fully met the functional requirements of the Planning Policy team or offered better value for money.