Harlow Council is set to introduce a new Social Value Policy and a refreshed Procurement Strategy to ensure that every contract and every pound spent delivers measurable benefits for the town.
The new policies – which will be considered at the next meeting of the Council’s Cabinet – will place residents, local businesses and community outcomes at the centre of all procurement activity. They are designed to ensure that council spending generates wider social and economic value by supporting local jobs, creating more opportunities for small and local businesses, strengthening local supply chains and keeping more investment within Harlow. This will help boost the local economy and deliver better value for every pound spent.
The updated Procurement Strategy reflects the requirements of the Procurement Act 2023 and places a strong emphasis on transparency, integrity and maximising public benefit. It simplifies processes, encourages innovation and ensures that whole-life value – rather than cost alone – is considered in procurement decisions. This is expected to result in improved services and stronger community outcomes for residents.
Both policies include clear performance monitoring and public reporting to ensure accountability and demonstrate the benefits being achieved for Harlow. They form an important part of the council’s wider transformation programme and support its commitment to delivering better outcomes for residents and businesses.
Announcing the new policies, Councillor Dan Swords, Leader of Harlow Council, said:
“We’re changing the way this council works – making sure every contract delivers real, measurable benefits for Harlow.
“With a strong Social Value Policy and a modern Procurement Strategy, we will open up more opportunities for local businesses, support local jobs and drive innovation.
“This is another important step as we transform the council and continue Building Harlow’s Future.”