To accept recently sought quotations for replacement items of grounds maintenance equipment used by the Opens Spaces service for grounds maintenance operations within the Tendring District.

The equipment forms part of the Council’s replacement rolling programme for vehicles and equipment and sufficient budget is provided within this programme.

The Corporate Finance & Governance Portfolio Holder and the Environment Portfolio Holder have concurred with this decision being made.

Not to replace. Extend life of existing equipment.

The Council could retain items of grounds maintenance equipment for longer periods however there is a strong possibility of downtime that will, overall, lead to a lowering of maintenance standards. Possibility also exists that the older equipment will be more prone to breakdowns causing inefficiency and potential safety hazards for staff.