Services

The Grounds Maintenance Contract plays a very important part in maintaining high quality environments within all Helena Housing neighbourhoods and estates.

Glendale Services were awarded the contract in 2004 to maintain all open plan estates and amenity land owned by Helena Housing. Helena Housing awards the Grounds Maintenance Contract on quality of service as well as cost. The initial contract is for three years but could be extended for a further two years subject to a positive performance review in 2007, this review is currently taking place.

Glendale is a well known national company based in Chorleyand has a base in St. Helens. They have a number of high profile clients including several local authorities and have provided horticultural services for the Royal Parks.

How is the Contract Managed by Helena?

Following the recent restructuring within Helena Housing, the contract management responsibilities are undertaken by the Environment Team within Neighbourhood Services. A team consisting of a Grounds Maintenance Project Officer and Clerk of Works carry out day to day management under the guidance of the Environment Manager.

The Grounds Maintenance Contract

The contract provides the following level of service (this is under review during the current contract negotiations):

Sheltered Accommodation

March to November - Grass cutting and collection of grass clippings/litterShrubs and rose beds maintenance including pruning and removal of litter.Hedges trimmed three times per year.
November/December - Clearance of leaves from paths and hard surfaces.
January/February - Application of a residual weed killer and moss killer to paths and hard surfaces.

Housing Estates

March to November - Grass cutting and collection of grass clippings/litter. Shrub bed maintenance including pruning and removal of litter. Hedges trimmed three times per year.

Flats - Courtyards

Hedges trimmed three times per year
January/February - Application of a residual weed killer and moss killer to paths and hard surfaces.

OAP/Disabled Gardens

Eligibility for this service is subject to strict criteria – for more details contact your local neighbourhood office .

March to October - Strimming of grass areas eight times per year, once per month (Note: Grass cuttings are not removed). Hedges trimmed twice per year.
January/February - Application of a residual weed killer to paths and hard surfaces.

Garage Sites/Ex-demolition Sites/Open Spaces

March to November - Grass mowing (Note: Grass cuttings are not collected). Hedges trimmed three times per year.
January /February - Application of a residual weed killer to hard surfaces.

How is performance monitored?

During the preparation of the contract a group of residents met to discuss and agree the approved specification. Helena Housing will continue to monitor Glendale's performance and is also planning to reconvene the Grounds Maintenance Focus Group to monitor the remaining two years of the contract.

Helena Housing in conjunction with its contract partner Glendale have agreed a range of key performance indicators which will be monitored each year to assist in maintaining the quality and efficiency of service delivery.

How do I make an enquiry or complaint?

If you experience any problems, or have cause to complain, please contact your local neighbourhood office . Contact details are given on the back of this leaflet.

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