Innovation
Councils are addressing challenges in IT service delivery and procurement processes, impacting the introduction of new methods.
Barnet Council decided in September 2026 to bring its IT End User and Managed Infrastructure services in-house after a procurement process for a new contract was abandoned. This followed a preferred bidder's proposed £1 million cost increase. Lewisham Council also faces significant challenges with its IT infrastructure and data collection capabilities, impacting service delivery, as highlighted in March 2026.
These developments occur as councils consider how to introduce new ideas and methods. Waltham Forest Council adopted a new Procurement Policy in July 2025, which aims to foster innovation and align with the Procurement Act 2023 and National Procurement Policy Statement 2025.
Key facts
- Barnet Council decided in September 2026 to bring IT services in-house. Source
- A preferred bidder sought to increase IT contract costs by approximately £1 million. Source
- Lewisham Council faces significant IT infrastructure and data collection challenges. Source
- Waltham Forest Council adopted a new Procurement Policy in July 2025. Source
- The Waltham Forest policy aims to foster innovation. Source
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.