Local businesses could miss out on council contracts

Businesses in Newtown and across north Powys are being warned they could miss out on future council work unless they complete a new mandatory registration process.

Powys County Council has confirmed that suppliers must now register on the UK Government’s Central Digital Platform if they want to be considered for contracts to provide goods, works or services.

The change comes under the Procurement Act 2023 and associated Welsh regulations, which introduce a new national system for managing public sector suppliers.

Under the rules, businesses must obtain a Unique Supplier Reference Code, also known as a Public Procurement Organisation Number (PPON), before they can take part in council quotation or tender processes.

The council has made clear that failure to register could mean it is unable to engage with a business at all when awarding contracts.

The move affects a wide range of local firms, from construction and engineering companies to service providers, consultants and suppliers hoping to secure public sector work in the area.

To help businesses prepare, the council is working with Business Wales to deliver a series of free online training sessions later this month.

The sessions will guide businesses through the new requirements, including how to register on the Central Digital Platform and how to approach tendering under the updated system.

They will take place on April 15, 22 and 29 between 1pm and 2.30pm, with businesses only needing to attend one session. 

Jane Thomas, Director of Corporate Services at Powys County Council, said the changes are designed to make procurement more open and consistent.

She said: “These changes are about making public sector procurement more transparent, consistent and accessible. We want to ensure that local suppliers are supported and fully prepared, which is why we’re working closely with Business Wales to offer practical guidance and training.

“Registering on the Central Digital Platform is a vital step for any business looking to work with the Council in the future.”

The registration process is described as a one off requirement and only requires basic information, but it will become a standard part of doing business with public sector organisations.

Businesses in Newtown and surrounding areas are being encouraged to complete registration as soon as possible to avoid missing future opportunities.

Further guidance is available via the council’s website and through the upcoming Business Wales training sessions.