No contractors bid to take on crumbling concrete work
Plans to replace roof tiles made of crumbling concrete in council homes are set to be delayed until the new year. The initial attempt to attract bids from contractors for the nearly £2 million job to replace RAAC roofing panels was unsuccessful. Consequently, the work has been re-evaluated and will now be put out to open tender with a proposed commencement date in January.
Approximately 90 council homes in Bathgate, Linlithgow, and Broxburn have been identified as having RAAC roofing panels, with homes in Livingston’s Craigshill area – now under Almond Housing management – also affected. Marjory Mackie, the Housing Strategy and Development Manager, revealed at a West Lothian Council meeting that there was a cost overrun of £1.78 million due to the need to re-tender the planned works after insufficient interest from the market.
Mackie mentioned that a new tender process is underway, with steps taken to make the project more manageable and appealing to contractors. The tender has been opened to the market, and a supply forum has been held to provide potential suppliers with detailed information. It is hoped that this fresh approach will result in a successful tender process.
When questioned about the reasons for the lack of bids, Mackie explained that various factors were identified, leading to the restructuring of the work package and a shift to open tendering. Despite potential financial implications, Mackie expressed confidence that the re-tendering process would yield positive outcomes and deliver best value.
As the council aims to begin the Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) Remediation Programme for affected council homes in January 2025, preparatory work has already commenced in common blocks of properties in Broxburn. This work includes ensuring safety, creating new access arrangements, asbestos removal, and essential remedial activities.
Furthermore, housing officers have assured local area committees that continuous communication with tenants is being upheld throughout the process to alleviate any concerns and provide updates as the project progresses.
**Insights and Summary:**
The delay in the replacement of crumbling concrete roof tiles in council homes due to the lack of contractor bids highlights challenges in infrastructure projects. The re-tendering process and efforts to make the project more attractive to contractors are essential steps towards ensuring the timely and successful completion of the necessary works. Effective communication with residents and stakeholders is crucial to maintain transparency and address any potential issues or queries that may arise during the project. Additionally, prioritising safety and compliance with regulations, such as asbestos removal, underscores the council’s commitment to delivering quality housing solutions.