Appointment of the principal contractor for the Grenfell Tower site
Published 1 August 2024
Applies to England
© Crown copyright 2024
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/appointment-of-the-principal-contractor-for-the-grenfell-tower-site/an-update-about-the-principal-contractor-for-the-grenfell-tower-site
After a standard procurement process, we reappointed Deconstruct UK (DUK) as principal contractor in May 2024. This procurement was part of the government’s role in keeping the site safe and secure. This procurement process began in November 2023, when bids were invited from companies who expressed an interest in delivering this critical role.
What does the principal contractor do?
The principal contractor is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and safety of the Grenfell Tower site.
What was involved in the procurement process?
Bidders in the procurement process were evaluated on a range of technical, commercial and behavioural criteria (including technical ability, health and safety, and community engagement) and a willingness to contribute to the immediate community (known as ‘social value’). A group of volunteers from the immediate community took part in the evaluation process. They learned about the principal contractor procurement process and about the social value the contractor can bring to the community. They attended the bidders’ presentations and had opportunities to give feedback and ask questions. You can read more about this process here.
Who is DUK?
Deconstruct UK Ltd (DUK) is part of a wider group of companies called De-Group. DUK has been working at the Grenfell Tower site since 2017 and has been principal contractor since July 2021. DUK has experience and understanding of the structure of Grenfell Tower and the sensitive management of the site.
Why has the same contractor been reappointed?
DUK was awarded the contract as it demonstrated the best combination of cost and quality.
What are DUK’s responsibilities?
DUK is responsible for a range of on-site activities that keep Grenfell Tower, and the immediate surrounding site, safe and secure. These include:
- monitoring the site 24 hours a day
- maintenance works including annual rewrapping of the tower
- regular checks of the props (metal supports) in the tower, the hoardings and gates, lighting, alarms, and security system
They also provide ‘social value’ opportunities for the community such as employment, training, and practical support.
Has DUK been appointed to bring down Grenfell Tower?
The Deputy Prime Minister is responsible for decisions on the future of Grenfell Tower. No decision has yet been made.
The Deputy Prime Minister recognises the importance of working sensitively with the Grenfell Tower Memorial Commission and the community on this issue and supports progress towards a fitting and lasting memorial.
The health and safety of the community is our priority. Carrying out our planned programme of maintenance will continue to maintain Grenfell Tower until a decision is made on its future. DUK’s contract does not include any works related to bringing down the tower.
Social value opportunities
As well as continuing to work responsibly, respectfully and with sensitivity, DUK will continue its commitment to provide social value opportunities for the immediate community. When it was first appointed as principal contractor in 2021, DUK committed 1.5% of its project budget to providing social value. Examples of opportunities DUK has provided to date include:
- the use of a van to support community projects
- English lessons for a bereaved family
- sewing and IT equipment for a bereaved group
- five apprenticeship opportunities in construction
- support to community centres by supplying and repairing equipment
- first aid kits and courses for community groups
- a regular careers adviser in the local job centre
- three one-year contracts working for DUK
- construction site visits for schools
DUK has committed to providing a wide range of social value opportunities and activities as part of its new contract and will take into account the views of the community.
To find out more, please go to www.degroup-community.uk
How to get in touch or for more information
We are available to talk to you and to answer any questions you may have. You can contact us by:
Email: [email protected]