3.15 Achieving success in managing a long term PFI contract will require not just a good contract with mechanisms for testing value for money and dealing with change but also an effective working relationship between the authority and its contractor. There will be a need for give and take when problems arise and an ability to work together constructively in adapting to changing circumstances. This is particularly important in a PFI hospital project because of the strategic decisions about the delivery of healthcare which could necessitate changes to the project.
3.16 Although there was some tension in the early stages of the relationship between the Trust's former management and THC Dartford as the project got under way, and later as the Trust sought to measure THC Dartford's performance more rigorously, the Trust and THC Dartford have taken steps to improve their relationship through effective regular contact at a senior level within their organisations. This has helped them understand strategic issues of concern to each other including situations which may necessitate change to the project. The Trust has found that working with the senior management of THC Dartford on the programme of additional building work has helped to progress the development of an improved relationship.