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Ipswich Borough Council has approved a £59,978 contract to implement new water piping at East Villa, its 45-room temporary housing facility for homeless families on Sidegate Lane, Ipswich.
The big picture: The council is moving quickly to replace old piping and maintain water hygiene standards at the site, which houses vulnerable residents, including children.
The contract was awarded to Ingleton Wood without the usual market testing process due to urgency.
Work will include designing new hot and cold water supplies based on specialist advice.
The project aims to mitigate safety risks and potential financial losses from delays.
Why it matters: East Villa provides critical temporary housing for homeless families in Ipswich, with 80% of rooms designated for those with children.
The facility opened in August 2019 and is staffed 24/7.
It includes communal areas, laundry facilities and an enclosed garden.
Maintaining proper water hygiene is essential for residents' health and safety.
Between the lines: The council consulted water hygiene specialist Nemco, who advised that completely re-piping the water supply was the only viable solution.
What's next: Ingleton Wood will carry out the design work in four stages:
Options appraisal
Design and specification
Procurement support
Contract management
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