Doncaster Council spend £50,000 on consultants to help with major projects across the borough

Turner and Townsend, a 'multinational professional services company' has been brought in by council bosses due to 'capacity issues' in the council's major projects team.

The Leeds-based firm is expected to be working alongside the council for the next six months and has also worked on projects in Sheffield, Manchester and Barnsley.

The council has a range of major projects in the pipeline which include a variety of town centre builds, infrastructure and housing developments.

A report seen by councillors outlines the firm will carryout a 'maturity assessment' along with a 'skills review' and consideration of the 'best alignment' of roles within the major projects area.

They will also develop and implement a 'performance management and governance framework' which will include 'associated reports, templates and electronic media'.

The procurement contract will also include the ability to have a 'call off arrangement' to supply and support access to development functions. Cost that could be incurred via this would have to be met via individual scheme costs or other budgets

Dave Stimpson, property manager at Doncaster Council, said: "Given the large number of major projects that are currently being delivered, there is a risk with the current capacity of the Major Projects team.

"The capacity skills and products which Turner and Townsend can provide will help ensure the delivery of major projects. The costs implications of this far outweigh the costs associated with the delivery of this contract.

"The recommendations of this report will support the effective governance of major projects activities which in turn will positively impact on the use of DMBC assets through effective risk management and timely project outcome delivery.