Cabinet Member for Environmental and Rural Affairs

Cabinet considered the report of the Head of Commissioning and Customer Contact and the above Cabinet Member which sought authority to award the Beach Lifeguard Service contract.

The Cabinet Member for Environment and Rural Affairs introduced the report and reported that the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has provided a good service for the previous 4 years.  The Chairman highlighted that the service included the beaches at Leysdown, Minster Leas and Sheerness.

A visiting Member reported that a jet bike had been provided for the RNLI but there was no facility to launch it.  He asked if launch facilities in the area could be considered?  The Chairman advised that there was a shingle ramp at Minster but this was some distance away.  The Cabinet Member for Environment and Rural Affairs agreed to research the issue further with officers and the RNLI.

Members expressed their support for the service which they considered a vital addition for residents and tourists.

Resolved:

(1)       That the procurement process undertaken be noted and the award of the beach lifeguard services to the RNLI for a period of 5 years (and option of 2 year extension) be approved.

(2)       That delegated authority be granted to the Head of Commissioning and Customer Contact and Head of Legal, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environmental and Rural Affairs, to negotiate the terms and conditions and complete the contract award.