AG - 0592 - 2020_Totnes Transition Homes CLT, Clay Park, Dartington

Aster had commenced the delivery of 39 affordable homes at Clay Park, Dartington, through a contract with Acheson Construction, appointed via a PCR2015-compliant framework (Westworks). Enabling works had started on site, and the scheme was progressing in line with planning and funding milestones. On 14 February 2025, Acheson issued a notice of intention to appoint administrators, forcing Aster to terminate the contract. This created an urgent need to secure a new contractor to avoid losing sub-contractor packages, escalating costs, and, critically, to meet a 3 June 2025 planning deadline to retain permission. Aster proposes a direct award to Clayewater Homes Ltd under the Procurement Act 2023, using the “advantageous terms due to insolvency” justification. Clayewater can mobilise immediately, retain existing subcontractors, and deliver the scheme at a fixed price below inflation-adjusted costs. A transparency notice will be published, and a Development Agreement entered into after the mandatory standstill period.