The specification for 2014 is up on the blog, but the other details are not readily available it seems (see message from the BEO below).
There is certainly surprise among residents that the costs are so much higher this time. The 2014 work was put out to tender and, I understand, the lowest bidder has been awarded the contract, so unless there was some kind of cartel we have a good price for the given specification.
Has the specification changed, and if so, how? We don't know because we don't have a copy of the old specification. There is a general feeling that the last redecorations were not done well, so we could guess that the specification has been tightened up and that this has contributed to the higher cost, but again, we really don't know.
We're between a rock and a hard place, or perhaps an unknown place and an expensive place. What can the house group do? Not much. We've put the 2014 spec on the blog, so for next time we'll be able to see and compare the specifications, but for this time it looks like we're going along for the ride. It's hard to see how blocking the redecoration at this stage would yield anything good: The block desperately needs redecoration so any delayed redecoration may demand even more extensive/expensive work. If we miss the summer painting season the redecoration may be compromised. There is nothing to suggest that a re-run of the bidding process would yield a lower cost.
If there is something you wish to say about this matter, just post a comment against this article. I'll make sure the BEO is aware of any messages. Of course you can also write directly to the BEO.
Here is the latest information from the BEO explaining why we don't have the specification for the previous redecorations:
Hello, following on from several requests for either a hard copy or electronic copy of the previous specification, I have been unable to acquire this. I had hoped that Becky Marshall (now Bello) may have had a spare (hard) copy which I could have photocopied and scanned over, she has not. Neither Steve Murray, Property Services Team Manager (who will be managing the technical aspects of the proposed redecoration programme) or I were involved with the previous redecoration work. Unfortunately, the two surveyors who were managing have now left the City of London’s employ.
I note Steve has supplied you with an electronic copy of the new specification (2014-2015). However, with regard to your queries about the changes in costs and also about the sills on the floor to ceiling windows on the South side on the 6th floor and reviewing the mastic/fix, Steve Murray should be able to assist you. I note there was also an enquiry with regard to the roof apportionments. As second stage consultation is still ongoing, please send any comments/queries to Steve Murray via email: steven.murray@cityoflondon.gov.uk
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