Following a thorough tendering process, DDC is pleased to reappoint Mears to deliver responsive repairs and maintenance works to the district’s 4,421 council homes over the next five years.
The new contract, which starts today (1 April), also includes bringing empty properties up to standard for new tenants as well as planned works, such as kitchen and bathroom refurbishments, and adaptions.
A new integrated IT system is being rolled out, allowing tenants to receive real-time updates on the progress and status of their repair.
DDC will also work with Mears to help ‘green the stock’ which involves creating a net zero plan with ambitious sustainability targets to improve energy efficiency.
This has already started with DDC being awarded £1.6m of grant funding following a successful joint bid to improve the heating systems and insulation to some of our properties identified as most in need.
This will help to reduce energy bills for tenants and help the council to achieve its climate objectives.
Members of the Dover District Tenants’ Consultative Group were involved in the procurement process on behalf of the district’s tenants, helping to choose the contractor.
They will also be part of monthly updates, allowing them to have a say on the performance of the service.
David Parish, DDC’s Head of Property Assets, said: “We’re pleased to have reappointed Mears after a lengthy procurement process.
“Our tenants were an important part of the decision-making process when it came to who we should appoint to deliver repairs and maintenance to their homes.
“They deserve a good quality place to live, and this continued partnership with Mears will allow a modern service with new technology and a fresh approach to maintaining our council homes.”
Neil Drakley, chair of the Dover District Tenants’ Consultative Group, said: “We are excited about the future of this new contract and all it offers DDC tenants.
“It is modernised and fit for the future, with much greater tenant involvement.
“We were instrumental in the procurement process and helped vote to choose the contract, ensuring it was fair and transparent throughout.”
Posted on 01 April 2025