It is assumed that this query relates to a below-threshold public procurement exercise using the light touch regime (LTR) under the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 (PCR 2015), SI 2015/102. Voluntary transparency notice A voluntary transparency notice may be used by a contracting authority where a public contract has been awarded without prior publication of a contract notice in accordance with PCR 2015, SI 2015/102, Pt 2 (ie a direct award). A contracting authority may opt to publish a voluntary transparency notice in these circumstances in order to prevent or resist a legal challenge on grounds of ineffectiveness under PCR 2015, SI 2015/102, reg 99(2). PCR 2015, SI 2015/102, reg 99(3) provides that the ground of ineffectiveness (for lack of advertisement) will not apply if the contracting authority: • considers the contract award (without prior publication of a contract notice) was permitted under PCR 2015, SI 2015/102, Pt 2 • publishes a voluntary