New contractor to manage the council’s trees

Following the appointment of new contractors for the waste and the grounds maintenance contracts, Hastings and Rother Councils have again joined forces to secure yet another major contract and save money in the process. Gristwood and Toms will be providing the new service to maintain trees in local parks, woodlands and open spaces.

As a result of putting the tender out as a partnership, the new ten year tree maintenance contract, which began on 06 November, has resulted in reduced costs for tree work for both councils. The contract also allows for AmicusHorizon housing association to join the contract and take advantage of more competitive rates for tree works.

Cllr Emily Westley lead member for environment Hastings Borough Council said:‘We have again shown that when local authorities form partnerships to procure contracts, we can get a better deal for the tax payer whilst maintaining excellent standards of care. We recently procured the Grounds Maintenance contract with Rother District Council and AmicusHorizon and we are excited about continuing this partnership and welcoming Gristwood and Toms to Hastings and Rother.’

Cllr Martin Kenward, Rother District Council member for leisure said: “This is another excellent example of councils working together to save tax payers money and protect services. After our careful procurement process, I have every faith Gristwood and Toms will perform to an extremely high level.”