IT modernisation projects
Barnet Council is insourcing IT services after a procurement failure led to a £1 million cost increase from a preferred bidder.
Barnet Council decided in September 2026 to bring its IT End User and Managed Infrastructure services back in-house. This decision followed the failure of a procurement process for a new contract, as the council's preferred bidder attempted to renegotiate terms.
The preferred bidder sought to add approximately £1 million in pension and redundancy costs, which was not permissible under procurement rules. This attempt to significantly alter the bid after submission led to the abandonment of the procurement.
As a result, staff currently employed by Capita Business Services Ltd will transfer to the council from October 1, 2026, as the services are insourced.
Key facts
- Barnet Council decided to bring IT End User and Managed Infrastructure services back in-house on September 3, 2026. Source 1 Source 2 Source 3
- Staff from Capita Business Services Ltd will transfer to Barnet Council from October 1, 2026. Source 1 Source 2
- The preferred bidder sought to increase bid costs by approximately £1 million. Source 1 Source 2
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.