North West authorities to set up database of adviser information
A group of North West local authorities is going to set up an online database to provide information on pricing and contacts for the firms and chambers they instruct jointly.
Twenty two entities, including Liverpool City Council, are in the process of reviewing potential advisers to the North West consortium, with appointments expected in March this year.
As part of the scheme a secure online database will be created with pricing and contact information, as well as the potential for clients to post feedback on their advisers.
Anthony Armitage, director of the First Law consultancy and organiser of the joint framework, said: “There’s an aspiration to share services, so it would be a waste not to share knowledge as well. When firms submit bills it will be easy to verify whether it’s in line with what they quoted in their pitch.”
Since launching the tender process Manchester City Council and several local authorities in North Wales have approached the consortium with a view to participating.
Forty four firms and 25 chambers have submitted tenders. Past advisers to participating authorities have included Addleshaw Goddard and DLA Piper.
