Trafford prepares to exit office PFI
Summary
Trafford Council officers are recommending that the authority take back the Sale Waterside office complex when its PFI contract expires in October 2028, rather than leave the asset in the contractor’s ownership. The council is also considering purchasing the commercial units and is planning a condition survey in 2027 to manage any hand-back liabilities and future maintenance responsibilities.
Why it matters
The article highlights a common end-of-PFI issue: condition, valuation and liability transfer at expiry. Surveyors may be involved in the final condition survey, asset valuation, and assessing maintenance and repair obligations as ownership and operational risk revert to the public sector.
Key points
- Trafford recommends taking back the Sale Waterside complex at PFI expiry in 2028.
- A final condition survey is planned for 2027 to reduce hand-back risk.
- The council will assume full maintenance and repair liability after exit.
- Trafford is also considering buying the commercial units at open market value.
- A short-term facilities management arrangement may be needed to maintain continuity.
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