Argyll and the Islands Enterprise (AIE) is urging local businesses to attend an awareness raising event in Inveraray next week so they are better prepared for changes to the way in which they have to bid for Council contracts.

Argyll and Bute Council (ABC) intends embarking on a multi million pound investment programme for schools and homes in Argyll and Bute.  Already 28 schools have been earmarked for major upgrades through the development of a Public Private Partnership initiative over the next three years.

This move means new business opportunities for local firms and AIE is on hand to help them get to grips with the new procedures.

AIE's Business Awareness Event next Wednesday morning (26th March) at the Loch Fyne Hotel in Inveraray will outline the challenges and opportunities in areas such as
construction, building maintenance and building related services.  Key speakers from the Council and their business partners will be explaining fully how the new scheme will operate and AIE staff will outline how they can help.  Participants will also be given the chance to ask questions and seek further advice and assistance.

Raising the capital for the repair and construction of schools has been an ongoing challenge for all Council.  However, with the recent approval of their Business Case by the Scottish Executive the ABC will soon be commissioning capital works in excess of £70 million in schools.  

ABC is also concerned about keeping up to date with the repair and maintenance of its housing stock.  The Council is currently exploring the option of transferring its stock to a Not For Profit Landlord accessing private funding for the necessary works, which are projected to cost around  £170 million.   If approved, this initiative will provide guarantees on investment over an initial thirty-year period within the context of an affordable rent regime.   In the circumstances, benefits will arise for both tenants and contractors.
 
Chief executive of AIE, Ken Abernethy said: "Argyll and Bute Council's changes to the way it conducts some of its business, especially in relation to schools and housing, will not only benefit residents, pupils and teachers, but can provide a major boost for local construction and building maintenance companies.

"Of course, with such innovative changes to the tendering and contracts process comes a whole new set of rules and procedures.  It is extremely important that our local firms are aware of the changes in order to be able to bid for future council contracts but also so that they are in a position to maximise on the new opportunities that the Council's multi million pounds investment programme will bring."