Decision details

Exemption to contract procedure rules on the grounds of urgency - appointment of new kennels to provide stray dog kennelling and rehoming services

Decision Maker: Assistant Director of Environmental Health

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: No

Is subject to call in?: No

Decision:

To use kenneling services provided by Babbington Hall Limited on an interim basis, until such time as an invitation to tender can be prepared.

Reasons for the decision:

The supplier of the existing contract were found to have failed to comply with several conditions listed under both Part A and Part B – General conditions (Schedule 2 of The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018, on inspection in January 2023.
The contract was therefore terminated under clause 22.3.2 for a material breach of the contract.
Reason for selection of Babbington Hall Ltd
? Able to provide service including the retention of three kennels immediately.
? Arrange for any vaccinations, veterinary treatment necessary.
? Offer a rehoming service if required.
? Finders can take dogs direct on weekends.
? Currently provide a service for three other Council areas so are familiar with the process.
? Proximity to M1 makes distance from anywhere on either district feasible.
? Kennel retention fee similar to previous supplier.
? Offer an Out of Hours service if necessary.

Alternative options considered:

The Council has a duty under s 149(1) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (EPA) to deal with stray dogs found in the area of the authority.
The following alternative options to provide for the kennelling of stray dogs were approached for consideration.
Sheffield City Council Kennels – currently do not provide a service to other Council areas.
Crowfoot Kennels used by Derbyshire Dales not feasible due to distance.
Dunston Lodge Kennels - Do not provide a rehoming service.
Upperwood boarding kennels – Do not currently provide a service for councils.
C4Paws – Do not currently provide a service for councils.
Birchwood boarding kennels – Do not currently provide a service for councils.
Carlton Forest Kennels– No response.
High Farm Boarding Kennels – No response.
Sandy Lane Kennels – No response.
Coxmoor House kennels – No response.

Publication date: 15/08/2025

Date of decision: 15/02/2023