HomeSituationsCommunity & public lifePublic–private project interface
TN/SIT/31
Edition 2027 · effective 1 January 2027
Community & public life · Public–private project interface
A public authority and a private partner share a project, and different accountabilities.
PPP and concession relationships last decades and face public scrutiny. Standing Neutrals and dispute boards protect both value and public trust.
§ 01What it looks like
Recognise it early. The earliest moment is the cheapest.
What you notice first
Small, and easy to explain away.
- Political change reopens terms
- Performance deductions disputed
- Change in law claims
- Public criticism
What waiting can cost
Usually more than the original issue.
- Public service continuity
- Taxpayer value
- Investor returns
§ 02The Neutral route
Usually: Standing Neutral.
A Neutral with standing knowledge keeps a long public relationship working through change.
Standing Neutral
The parties decide. The Standing Neutral is available, informed and activated by rule.
Also used · As the contract sets: recommendation or interim-binding decisionDispute Board
The board recommends or decides, as the contract sets.
Also used · AdvisoryNeutral Evaluation
You decide. The evaluator advises.
§ 03The steps
What a good process looks like.
- Use the contract’s review mechanismsBefore anything else01
- Appoint a Standing Neutral or boardThe moment independence enters02
- Evaluate disputed issues independentlyWhere the work is done03
- Report transparentlySo it holds04
§ 04Prepare and avoid
What to bring. What to leave out.
(Bring)
01
Concession agreement
02
Performance data
03
Change history
04
Public accountability requirements
(Avoid)
✕
Political escalation before process
§ 05Your version
Every situation is different. Describe yours.
§ 06Related