PROPERTY experts across Europe are being targeted by Powys County Council as part of plans to set up a business venture to deliver services in the county.

The new business will be based in Powys and the council says it will employ local people even if the new partner is from outside the county. Potential partners have until January 29 to express an interest.

For many years the council has run its own in-house property and construction services; repairing and maintaining all its council houses and public buildings while also project managing its new building projects.

Councillor Darren Mayor, cabinet member for property, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity to set up a new property services based joint venture in the heart of Powys. We spend over £11m per annum on maintaining our property assets which is why we are required by law to look for a partner at a European level. In future years we also have a really challenging programme of school renewal and major refurbishments.

“With the increasing pressure on its budget the Council wants to ensure it gets the maximum value for its investments and we are now seeking a like-minded partner who can join us to up-skill our workforce, invest in new technology and ensure that our properties are maintained in a fit for purpose manner for many years yet to come.”

Interested companies can view the contract notice containing further details of the opportunity on the Welsh Government’s Sell2Wales website at www.sell2wales.gov.uk