Development and Regulatory Services (DRS)
Barnet Council officers have recommended Capita Symonds as the preferred bidder to join the council in a joint venture to deliver development and regulatory services in the borough. The proposal will be put to the Council's cabinet on 24 June 2013.
The new joint venture will provide savings to the council of £39.1 million over current net costs on a contract worth £154 million over 10 years. The new business will be based in Barnet and will keep staffing at broadly the current level.
In addition to financial savings the proposals also provide for an investment of £8.2 million, largely in new technology, improving facilities and staff training.
Read the press release.
What is the DRS project?
The Development and Regulatory Services (DRS) project is part of the One Barnet programme.
The council has identified there are significant benefits to be gained from working with a private sector partner to provide a range of services relating particularly to the built environment and the environmental health of the borough.
We want to improve citizens’ experience, enhance the quality of services and meet our efficiency targets. We want a partner who can help us develop, enhance and protect Barnet’s built environment, while minimising the cost of these services to residents. Working together, we will support the financial and economic development of the borough.
The following services will be provided by the DRS provider:
Built Environment
- Building Control
- Planning Administration (Development Management)
- Strategic Planning and Regeneration
- Transport
- Highways Services
- Land Charges.
Environmental Health
- Environmental Health
- Trading Standards and Licensing
- Cemetery and Crematorium.
How were decisions made?
- Cabinet approved plans to proceed with procurement for a provider to deliver these services in November 2010
- a Business Case was reviewed and approved by Cabinet in March 2011 - Cabinet approval of business case
- an updated business case was reviewed and approved by Cabinet Resources Committee in December 2011.