A novel approach could soon change how the district manages its spending.

Cherwell District Council is assessing a new procurement strategy intended to deliver better outcomes for residents through smarter use of resources.

The leadership team will consider the proposed strategy at its April 7 meeting.

The paper details how the authority intends to purchase goods and services to optimise value for money, boost the local economy, and ensure contracts more effectively benefit the district.

According to Chris Brant, the council’s corporate services spokesperson, the strategy aims to ensure that public money is spent in ways that benefit Cherwell residents. Brant explained that by creating more opportunities for local firms to work with the council, getting better returns on spending, and focusing more on community outcomes, the council can build a stronger local economy while improving the services people depend on. Brant stated that the council’s procurement must reflect current best practice, and this updated approach does that. The council wants to deliver the most affordable services for communities now and in the future.

The strategy responds to recent changes in national legislation and includes enhancements to how suppliers are engaged.

It focuses on fairness, transparency, and extracting maximum benefit for residents from council contracts.

One key aim is making it easier for small and medium-sized businesses based in Cherwell to bid for work, keeping more spending local and strengthening the district economy.

Social value forms a core part of the updated approach.

Future contracts will be designed to support wider community goals such as job creation, training programmes, community investment projects, and environmental improvements.

The strategy also prioritises environmental factors, with purchasing decisions considering ecological impact.

By embedding sustainability requirements into contract conditions, the council hopes to further reduce carbon emissions across its supply chain and advance its ambition to reach net zero by 2030.

A more modern and proactive approach to contract management will also be introduced to ensure suppliers meet their commitments and any emerging issues are dealt with quickly.

This should improve the reliability and standard of services delivered through council contracts.

If approved, the strategy will shape the council’s commissioning and contract management activities for the next two years.

Businesses wishing to become council suppliers or view upcoming opportunities can visit www.cherwell.gov.uk/procurement.

The full draft procurement strategy is also available on the council’s website.