On 20 December 2024, Cabinet accepted the Community Regeneration Partnership funding and commenced delivery. Prior to this, the programme was accepted into the Policy Framework by Full Council on 8 June 2024 and the principle of entering the Partnership approved by Cabinet on 26 July 2024. Subsequently, the funding has been received and a Memorandum of Understanding entered with MHCLG which includes TDC as the Accountable Body. The funding period lasts until 31 March 2026.
The appointment of the required services are necessary to progress the project through to delivery, including achieving defrayment in line with the MOU.
The Council has conducted a procurement process in line with the constitution to procure a competent consultant with a comprehensive skill set including,
Essential:
Placemaking / urban design
Creative stakeholder engagement
Planning - including Town Centre uses
Marketing

To enter contract with Publica Associates Ltd (company number 07225685) for the provision of consultancy services, incorporating the preparation of a spatial masterplan and framework for Clacton town centre which includes clear strategy for the development of the town centre going forward, for the Ten_14 Cultural Masterplanning project which is being delivered as part of the Community Regeneration Partnership funding programme.
The services have a total cost of £91,050.00 plus VAT (including 10% contingency).
Reviewed and endorsed by the Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism and the Portfolio Holder for Arts, Culture and Heritage.
Approvals kept on file.

Option 1 – Not to appoint this company: In line with the Procurement Procedure Rules for this value level, a competitive mini-competition tender process was undertaken, administered by Essex Procurement Partnership through a suitable framework. Three tender returns were received. The proposed appointment was evaluated by a panel of officers as meeting the Council’s requirements and providing value for money.
Option 2 – Not to appoint at this time: Due to the limited funding envelope, delaying appointing to this key role in the project team could negatively impact on the feasibility of the project and risk the funding secured.
Option 3 – Not to appoint an external consultant: this approach was not selected due to there not being sufficient capacity within Council teams to be resourced to the project within the timescales. The selected consultants expertise from similar contexts will also provide industry-leading advice and benefit to the Council and community.
Option 4 – Not to progress the project: this would forfeit significant government funding and the opportunity to address important local issues, and could impact on the Council’s access to central government regeneration funding in the future.