The Council is keen to encourage a diverse mix of suppliers both large and small.

The aim of this guide is to provide some key information on how the Council buys a wide range of goods and services. All procedures relating to the purchase of goods, services and works are established in the Council’s main procedural rules.

Best Value For Money is a duty to deliver services to clear standards – covering both cost and quality – by the most effective, economic and efficient means available."

All local authorities are required to secure Best Value in the way they deliver their services. This means that they must ensure continuous improvement and secure value for money throughout the buying process. It also means that the Council is accountable to local people in its business dealings, which must be open, fair, transparent and auditable.

SME’s and the Third Sector

The Council is keen to work closely with SME’s and Third Sector organisations. All parts of these sectors are encouraged to submit bids for our contracts. Businesses of all types and size will be treated fairly by the Council.