To get to this stage we had a formal bidding process over 12 months where we had residents tell us what they wanted improved or changed on cleaning, gardening and tree maintenance services.
A key message throughout was that residents would like to see a minimum level of training for gardeners and cleaners. They also wanted smaller areas of work for each contractor.
Previously we only had two contractors looking after our estates that would have to adapt to each one so by adding five more contractors we could have more flexibility for the work that needs to be carried out.
The people we will be working with are:
- Just Ask – cleaning and gardening
- Chequers – cleaning and gardening
- Pinnacle – cleaning
- Wettons – cleaning
- Cleanscapes – cleaning
- Gingko – gardening
- Grounds Care Group – gardening
We have a range of performance metrics for our new contractors including checking the quality of their work, the frequency of attendance and the response time to certain issues. This means we’ll continue to check back with residents to ensure the contractors are meeting their expectations.
We know there are some areas of planting which needs attention and as part of our new approach we will aim to improve biodiversity and floral coverage at a number of schemes moving forward.
Thanks to all those residents who provided valuable feedback to improve our services.
