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Council bypasses tender process for urgent £79,000 IT contract

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Ipswich Borough Council has bypassed its usual market testing process to award an urgent £79,000 contract, citing the need to quickly implement new project management tools to deliver planned savings.

The big picture: The council's director of transformation and change has approved a three-year contract with Smartsheet UK without going through the standard competitive tendering process.

Why it matters: This decision highlights the urgency of the council's need to implement new project management systems.

By the numbers:

  • Total cost of £79,312 excluding VAT

  • Three-year contract

  • Six service areas already use the system

  • Two working days are committed for the initial implementation

Between the lines: The council justified skipping market testing under Contract Standing Orders paragraph 10.2, arguing that:

  • The current lack of proper infrastructure tools compromises project governance

  • Existing familiarity with Smartsheet in six service areas would minimise training time

  • The system is needed urgently to deliver savings programmes

What's next: The contract is set to begin in October 2024, with Project Plan Services partnering to provide integration support and training.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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