Eastbourne Borough Council - £1 million - 2008 - 2018

The Landscape Group commenced the grounds maintenance contract for the borough in 2008. The company invested for the long term and purchased depot and office accommodation in 2010 specifically for the contract, which gives long term security for all concerned.

Eastbourne is renowned for its seafront and bedding schemes, and The Landscape Group's dedicated team of gardeners ensure that not only the highest standard of maintenance is delivered, but also that customer relations services are maintained with the numerous tourists who visit the area every day.

Because the level of green waste generated on the contract is significant, our environmental management strategy, accredited to ISO 14001 ensures that all environmental targets are met and that costs are managed. A closed loop recycling facility was established to address this, and all green waste is now processed at a local site whilst associated material is

utilised on the contract.

The company undertakes a wide range of all horticultural services, including:

• Grass cutting, including fine turf;
• Maintenance of shrubs, roses, herbaceous borders and hedges;
• Cemeteries maintenance, including burials;
• Sports pitch maintenance and attendance;
• Hard surface weed control;
• Litter and leaf collection;
• Play area inspection and maintenance;
• Paddling Pool maintenance.

The Group recognises the importance of local stakeholders and works closely with all the local parks and friends groups.

Recognising the need for all authorities to make savings and to benefit from the economy of scales is also important to us on this contract. In April 2011 the company commenced the maintenance

of the cemeteries contract as an addition to the main contract. Given that the existing management team, depot and office were in place, the  company was able to offer a more cost efficient service whilst also being able to benefit from having a stronger local management team than the previous contractor

Eastbourne has a requirement to undertake various one-off works, many of which are construction related. In 2009, in agreement with the authority the company set up a dedicated landscape team. This enables Eastbourne to have a rapid response service, a skilled and competent team whilst also being cost efficient working on agreed margins.

The Group is also keen to promote horticulture and has sponsored a plant growing scheme with local schools, awarding prizes to the successful entrants.