Tameside Council set to bring facilities management services back in-house by 2026

Tameside Council is poised to overhaul the way it manages its buildings and facilities, with plans to bring the majority of its Facilities Management (FM) services back under direct Council control from May 2026.

The proposal will go before the Executive Cabinet on Wednesday 26 November, following a detailed review of the authority’s current contract with Robertson Facilities Management (RFM). The move forms part of the Council’s wider commitment to modernising services, boosting efficiency, and delivering better value for money for residents.

Under the new model, core FM services, including cleaning, caretaking, maintenance, and helpdesk operations, would be brought in-house. Project management functions would also transfer to the Council’s FM and Capital Projects team. Around 140 staff currently employed by RFM are expected to transfer to the Council as part of the restructure.

A key feature of the plan is the procurement of a new Integrated Workplace Management System, designed to streamline operations and strengthen compliance across the Council’s estate.

Councillor Hugh Roderick, Executive Member for Finance and Resources, said the proposal represents a significant step forward for the borough.
“Bringing these services back in-house is a win-win for Tameside,” he said. “Financially, instead of paying profit margins to an external provider, we’ll be reinvesting those savings into frontline services and making sure every pound delivers value for residents. It also gives us the flexibility to negotiate better deals on maintenance and compliance and to work more closely with local businesses on projects to support our local economy.

“Just as importantly, this is about people. Staff under the current contract will become part of the Council team. We want them to feel valued and supported because they’re the ones who keep our buildings running day in, day out. We're doing what’s right for Tameside, both for our residents and for the people who deliver these essential services.”

The restructure is expected to give the Council greater control over planned maintenance and compliance work, while opening opportunities to engage more local contractors for capital projects and major events.

The existing FM contract is due to end on 30 April 2026, with the proposed new structure scheduled to go live on 1 May 2026, subject to Cabinet approval. The Council says it will work closely with staff and trade unions to ensure a smooth and well-supported transition.