Lincolnshire County Councillor for Boston Coastal, Alistair Arundell, is calling for a major shift in the way local authority contracts are awarded, urging that more of the millions of pounds spent each year by Lincolnshire County Council goes directly to businesses within the county.
Cllr Arundell says that while the council invests heavily in services, infrastructure, and maintenance, too many contracts are currently being won by large corporations based outside Lincolnshire. He believes this leaves smaller, highly skilled local firms missing out on vital opportunities that could help them grow, create jobs, and keep the economic benefits circulating within the local community.
“Lincolnshire has the skills, the businesses, and the people to deliver much of this work,” he explained. “But too often, contracts go elsewhere, to companies based far outside our area. Local businesses matter greatly, and it doesn’t make sense to see money raised from Lincolnshire taxpayers going straight out of the county.”
To help address this, Cllr Arundell will be attending a roadshow at Boston Library, planned for the near future, aimed at supporting businesses who want to become approved suppliers to the council. The event will offer step-by-step guidance on how to get registered, complete the necessary paperwork, and navigate the quoting process.
“This is about breaking down barriers,” Cllr Arundell said. “Many smaller businesses are put off by the forms, systems, and red tape that come with council contracts. The roadshow will give them the tools and support to get through the process, so they’re in the best position to win work.”
The initiative is part of Reform’s wider push to ensure that public money spent in Lincolnshire stays in Lincolnshire, helping to build stronger communities and supporting the county’s economy from the ground up.
Cllr Arundell is encouraging business owners of all sizes, from trades and construction through to services and suppliers, to come along and find out more.
“If you use the link below or send me a personal message, I can point you directly to the right team at the council who will help you,” he added. “This is a chance for local businesses to put themselves forward and benefit from the money being spent here in Lincolnshire.”
By making the system more accessible and ensuring local firms are aware of the opportunities available, Cllr Arundell hopes to see a fairer share of council contracts awarded to businesses based in the county, keeping jobs, investment, and growth within Lincolnshire.
For further details, visit https://www.businesslincolnshire.com/register-as-a-business-supplier/.
