The TEST Valley City Council was forced to start a new application process to install two statues of the late Queen Elizabeth II after authorities discovered a procurement violation.
This came after it was announced that Quarley sculptor Amy Goodman had won the contract.
Although the council advertised nationally, the cost of the contract meant that it had to advertise on two other specific purchasing portals.
The plan is to erect two statues of Queen Elizabeth II in Andover and Romsey as part of the Platinum Jubilee.
With permission, the statues will be located outside the Vigo Playground and Romsey Abbey in Andover.
Council head Phil North previously confirmed that the contract was with Ms. Goodman, who also created the War Horse sculpture at Romsey Memorial Park, which was unveiled in 2013.
National news sites, including the BBC, reported on two planned bronze statues of Ms. Goodman.
Andover planning agent Paul Flippans said the board took note of his concerns after he made a Freedom of Information (FOI) request based on a social media post by Cllr North that he “proudly handed over a £200,000 contract sterling.”
Mr. Flippans said he filed a freedom of information request in October and re-tendered on November 21 with a new December 19 deadline.
A spokesman for Test Valley City Council said: “The council recently appointed an artist to create two new pieces of public art for Test Valley to celebrate HM Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee earlier this year.
“The authorities awarded two contracts – one to Andover and one to Romsey – following a transparent and competitive procurement process. He published a nationwide advertisement, widely publicized through the established public art network. He created two panels in the north and south of the district to consider proposals, which he gets in. Panels are made up of advisors and external partners and follow strict evaluation criteria when considering proposals.
“It was later discovered that while the council did follow an open procurement process, the value of the contracts meant they had to advertise on two specific additional procurement portals. Unfortunately, this was omitted, meaning that the council violated procurement rules. Therefore , the authorities will re-bid for the contract.It should be emphasized that this does not affect the artists or their work, and they will be able to re-submit their bids.
“We understand that this will be very frustrating for the winning artist and our community involved in the process. But we are absolutely aware that if it turns out that we have not followed our purchasing process, we will do our best to make sure we correct We are very sorry for everyone affected, but we are working quickly to resolve the issue and move the project forward as quickly as possible.”
Cllr North has been contacted for comment. He said he was aware of the issue and that the council’s public relations team would provide an update.
We want our reviews to be a vibrant and valuable part of our community – a place where readers discuss and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however this privilege can be revoked if abused or misused.
This website and its associated newspaper adhere to the editorial code of the Independent Journalism Standards Organization. If you have any complaints about inaccurate or intrusive editorial content, please contact the editor here. If you are not satisfied with the answers provided, you can contact IPSO here
© 2001-2022. This site is part of the Newsquest network of trusted local newspapers. Gannet Co. Newsquest Media Group Ltd, Loudwater Mill, Station Road, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. HP10 9TY. Registered in England & Wales | Registered in England & Wales | Registered in England and Wales | Registered in England and Wales |01676637 |
These advertisements allow local businesses to reach their target audience – the local community.
It is important that we continue to promote these ads as our local businesses need the utmost support during these challenging times.
Post time: Dec-09-2022
