Surrey launching eBay style website to help local businesses

Peter Martin. Click on the image to download

An eBay style website is set to be launched to help local businesses cash in on council work.

Surrey County Council is creating the site to help firms secure building repair and construction work as sub-contractors on larger projects.

Local builders and electricians among others will be able to pitch for smaller jobs that major contractors need doing, with the bidder offering the lowest quote and the best quality of work winning the deal.

It is part of Surrey leader David Hodge’s pledge to promote economic growth by ensuring 60% of the council’s spending on goods and services is with local businesses.

Major building firms such as Morgan Sindall Group, Mansell Construction Services and Osborne are involved in developing the site ahead of its expected launch next February.

The BuildSurrey site will also act as an apprenticeship matching service, bringing businesses offering roles in the building trade together with potential candidates.

Surrey County Council deputy leader Peter Martin said: “In the current climate, we must do everything we can to support the local economy and our aim is to ensure 60% of the county council’s spending is with local businesses.

“Just like on eBay, local firms will be able to bid, with the big difference being that on our website the firm offering the best combination of price and quality will win the deal.

“Big business is always going to need help wiring a building or installing window frames and doors and there can be no better way for the council to help local firms thrive than by putting money in their bank accounts.”

Local firms have to register on the site and are vetted to ensure they provide a good service and hold any necessary qualifications before they can bid for work.