Peterborough Considers Bringing Services Back Under Council Control

Peterborough might bring services in-house. A trade union is happy about this news. Around 400 workers could rejoin the council. They work at Peterborough Ltd now, a council-owned company. This could reform how the council delivers services.

Aragon Direct Services is the brand name they use. They handle bins, cleaning, parks, and transport. The move could cost up to £3.6 million. Staff might get better pay with the council, potentially ending a pay dispute.

The council wants more control over services and thinks it will improve efficiency. GMB Union members had a pay fight with the company. Gordon White supports the council’s idea, believing it’s good to bring services back. He says these services are very visible to voters.

The union will help resolve the pay problem. They will work with the council to protect worker conditions. The current system started in 2019. The council pays Peterborough Ltd for the services.

The company also does leisure and culture work. Some services include museums. These services will stay with another company called PCHLL, which has its own staff.

Cabinet members will meet to discuss this soon and will consider the move on March 11. If they agree, the council will give notice and end their contract with Peterborough Limited. They may move faster than 12 months.

Angus Ellis wants more control over services, stating that these services affect everyone in the city. He wants to provide them more efficiently. The council wants financial sustainability. The council reviewed Serco’s contract before.

They also reviewed Opportunity Peterborough and brought those employees in-house. This gave more control and saved money. Angus Ellis thanked Peterborough Limited’s staff, assuring them they will get updates as things progress.