Decision details

To advise of the current situational position of NEWydd Catering and Cleaning Limited in light of the impact of Covid-19 and to seek approval for the changes required to the business to secure the long term future of the company.

The Chief Officer (Streetscene and Transportation) introduced the report and explained since transitioning to a Local Authority Trading Company in 2017, NEWydd Catering & Cleaning Limited (NEWydd) had strived to create a more modern and competitive model of operations which was a key feature of its pre-Covid-19 Business Plan for 2020/21.  

            The Managing Director of NEWydd provided a comprehensive presentation which detailed the proposals in full for organisational change and the development of a new operating model to secure the longevity of NEWydd Catering and Cleaning Limited (NEWydd).

            A number of questions on opportunities were asked by Members and responded to, with the emphasis being on the business being progressive.  Questions were also asked on the workforce and work being undertaken with Trade Unions.

            As Chair of the Organisational Change Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Councillor Mackie made the following observation:

“I feel the report should have started with details from paragraph 2.08 which explains that the business had successfully built up reserves in their first 3 years. I have also heard that they have risen to significant challenges during the crisis and together these points would have shown them to be a successful and flexible business needing to change in the current climate”.

RESOLVED:

(a)       That the current position of NEWydd Catering & Cleaning Limited in light of the impact of the Covid-19 emergency and the resulting drivers for organisational change within the company be noted;

(b)       That the commencement of a period of consultation with the Trade Unions, staff  and clients on the proposed new operating model which will preserve the long-term future of the company be approved; and

(c)        That delegated authority be given to the Chief Executive, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Management and Assets and exercised with the Managing Director’s advice, to authorise and implement the new operating model.