The selected provider would deliver planned and reactive maintenance, lifecycle replacement, minor works and a service desk/contract centre facility.

In total, the council’s housing portfolio consists of 14,000 properties.

The Hard FM portfolio includes Operational Property, Non Operational and Investment Property, Sheltered Housing and a Social Housing element.

It is understood the desired provider should demonstrate positive community and local economy benefits by including effective use of the supply chain along with a ‘drive to develop local resource and skillsets’.

The contract term will be for five years, with an optional further two-year extension.

The council has added it plans to have all contract terms in place and mobilised by 30 September, 2016.

The contract award is to made via a Restricted Tender process, following a Pre-Qualification stage, issued through www.publiccontractsscotland.gov.uk.