The Council has had an agreement in place with East Suffolk Council (formerly Suffolk Coastal District Council) for the provision of services related to imported food since October 2011. This decision relates to an extension of that arrangement until 30th September 2020.

To agree a Deed of Variation to the Agreement with East Suffolk Council for the provision of services relating to imported food at Harwich International Port, Harwich Navyyard and Mistley Quay.

Option 1 - Not continuing with the arrangements. This would mean providing the services in-house and either recruiting additional or training existing staff and purchasing dedicated software. Given the low volume of imported food arriving into the ports in the District it is more cost effective at around £8,000 for the core service per annum to contract the service to East Suffolk Council who through their work at Felixstowe have a high level of expertise.
Option 2 - To continue with the service. Following discussions with the Portfolio Holder and taking all practical considerations into account this is the preferred option.