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Written question asked by John Healey (Labour) on Thursday, 14 April 2022, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 20 April 2022. It was answered by Jeremy Quin (Conservative) on Monday, 25 April 2022 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Defence Business Services: Blackpool

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, pursuant to the Answer of 5 April 2022 to Question 148053, on Defence Business Services: Blackpool, which other sites were considered; and if he will define and explain the process of down selection in that case.

Answer

The down selection to a recommended option went through a two-stage process, with four headline options: Option 1 - Do minimum (Benchmark Option), staff remaining in their current locations with Cheadle Hulme staff relocated locally to alternative privately leased accommodation; Option 2 - Consolidate at Manchester; Option 3 - Consolidate at Liverpool; Option 4 - Consolidate at Blackpool.

At the end of Stage One in May 2021 the Manchester options were discounted as the most expensive and not demonstrating value for money.

Blackpool was down selected as the preferred option at the end of Stage Two in September 2021, by comparing the qualitative benefits and through life costs of potential sites based on several factors, including lease and set up costs, ease of transition, and compliance against the Statement of Requirement.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
153750
Session
2021-22
Related items
Defence Business Services: Blackpool
Tuesday, 5 April 2022
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects
Costs Location Blackpool Defence Business Services
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk