Thank you for your prompt reply.., although you continue to fudge your answer.

You have not answered my question about whether the increases that you have used are “official” AeCOM figures that are used by that consultancy e.g. nationwide.

You have not answered my questions about the basis for the energy costs increases that you have used. (see my FOI).

This is a critical issue, and one to which that the public needs to have a definitive answer. As I am sure you are aware, your “cost neutral” obligations for the relocation cannot be met on the official DECC projections.

Please also let me know what competitive tender Heynes Planning won that is justifying their additional fees.

I should be grateful if you will provide a definitive answer.

Regards

You have lately written to us on a number of occasions and matters. As well as your queries regarding energy cost calculations you have asked several questions regarding use of consultancy which Kate Symington has passed to me to consider.

My responses are as follows:

Energy cost projections

The projected future increase in energy costs is a conservative reflection of the past decade of actual energy cost increases. Were we to project future energy costs at the exact same rate as the past 10 years experience then the cost saving argument for relocation would be even more compelling. The Council’s relocation will allow it to reduce its energy bills and its energy consumption significantly.

Consultancy

You are also interested in our use of Heynes Planning to provide planning advice. Their work is ongoing and, when it is completed, the contract will remain confidential not least because knowledge of the content could be unfairly advantageous to competitors in any future bidding the company may wish to undertake. We will review the continued confidentiality at a future date.

The threshold for single tender action is £5,000. With regard to total monies paid to Heynes Planning, the company is providing unrelated services elsewhere in the district for EDDC having been commissioned as part of a competitive tendering process for a sum greater than the threshold.

Lastly, ‘prompt’ in the context that Kate has used it means done in a timely manner rather than late. I hope that clears up your concern.

Regards

Richard Cohen
Deputy Chief Executive
East Devon District Council
Knowle
Sidmouth
EX10 8HL