The Police and Crime Commissioner for Humberside has praised the ‘expertise and capability’ of companies in the region after three Hull-based firms were appointed to maintenance contracts for Humberside Police.
Following a rigorous tender process for maintenance, testing and repairs, Airkool Contracts Ltd, GEO Houlton & Sons Ltd and SR Black Plumbing and Heating Ltd were each successful in bids to fulfil service requirements across the force and Humberside Fire and Rescue Service.
On behalf of the Commissioner, the project was led by the Joint Estate Service and Procurement Team to conduct the tender process which was open to any contractors.
In total, 21 contractors submitted bids for elements of the contract and, following thorough examination, three local companies emerged as the preferred candidates.
Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Evison said: “My priority is always to aim to support the communities we serve, and this new maintenance contract reflects that commitment.
“Although this was a fully open and competitive route to market, I am pleased that the successful tenders came from three proud Hull-based companies - Airkool Limited, GEO Houlton and Sons Limited, and SR Blacks Ltd.
“Seeing local companies succeed through an open process reinforces the value of the expertise and capability we have here in the Humber region. Their involvement helps maintain employment, supports apprentices starting their careers, and keeps valuable knowledge rooted within our community.
“I’m especially pleased that the contract also includes support for local community projects, ensuring that this investment reaches far beyond buildings and services. It helps strengthen neighbourhoods, create opportunities, and contribute to the wellbeing of residents across Hull and the wider region.
“This is about more than maintenance - it’s about pride in our community and working together to support the people who rely on us every day.”
Through the Procurement Act 2023, a minimum of ten per cent of the full tender project must be set for a social value and sustainability contribution. This project mandated a measure of ‘local people employed and retained.’
Across the lifespan of the contract – which runs until March 31, 2030 with a 12-month extension option – more than £5.9million will have been contributed to employing local people.
Airkool Contracts Ltd director Richard Dawson said: “Airkool Contracts Limited is delighted to have been awarded the four-year mechanical services contract with Humberside Police and Fire.
“This partnership reflects our commitment to delivering compliant, high-quality mechanical solutions that support the continuity and resilience of critical public services.”
GEO Houlton & Sons Ltd director Mike Johnson said: “Houlton’s are pleased to announce that we have been awarded the Police and Fire Service Joint Estates Building Maintenance contract.
“This appointment reflects confidence in our experience, technical capability, and commitment to delivering safe, compliant, and high-quality maintenance services.
“We look forward to working in partnership with the Police and Fire Services to support their estates through a proactive, responsive approach that helps ensure operational continuity and long-term asset performance.”
SR Black Plumbing and Heating director Stuart Black said: “This new contract with Humberside PCC reinforces our long-standing investment in local apprenticeships and community initiatives, enabling us to further build on that commitment, retain and create new local jobs and drive greater social impact throughout the region.”
