Council seeks local expertise for roads maintenance framework

Did you know you can get paid for helping keep Orkney's roads clear? If you’re a contractor, farmer or plant hirer who could assist during periods of extreme weather or with planned and reactive roads maintenance work, you can register to be part of the Council's contractor framework and be reimbursed for your time and equipment.

The Council is hosting a drop-in Meet the Buyer event on Monday 9 March from 9am at the Orkney Auction Mart, Kirkwall, where you can speak directly to officers from the roads and procurement teams, find out more about the opportunity, and get any questions answered before applying.

Councillor Mellissa Thomson, Vice-Chair of the Enterprise and Infrastructure Committee, said: "As a farmer, I know how much local contractors and farmers do to help keep Orkney moving during bad weather, and we want to make sure that anyone who helps out is properly reimbursed.

"If you have the equipment and think you could help, I'd really encourage you to come along to the mart on the 9th. The team will be there to answer any questions you might have and to help you get signed up on the day."

The application form asks for details on the type of machinery or plant you have available, the kind of work you can help with, and the area you would be able to cover. Applications must be submitted by Friday 3 April at 12pm.

Unable to attend? You can express an interest at www.orkney.gov.uk/wintertreatmentcontracts and a member of our procurement team will be in touch to talk you through the process. You can also apply directly through the Public Contracts Scotland portal at www.publiccontractsscotland.gov.uk. Paper copies of the application form are also available at Customer Services in Kirkwall and Warehouse Buildings in Stromness.

If you need help using the Public Contracts Scotland portal, their support team is available on 0800 222 9003, Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm.