Public-sector procurement specialist SCAPE has published its tender notice for a next-generation Construction Works and Services Framework valued at £8bn. Operating across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland from 2027 to 2031, the initiative aims to appoint 15 suppliers across five distinct lots to streamline public infrastructure delivery.
The Bottom Line
- Framework Valuation: The contract spans an estimated £8bn over an initial four-year term running from September 2027 to September 2031, with a potential two-year extension.
- Supplier Allocation: Exactly 15 suppliers will be appointed, with three delivery partners securing places on each of the five geographical and sector-specific lots.
- Scoring Architecture: Quality accounts for a significant portion of the final tender score, while the commercial model dictates the remainder.
Procurement Structure Across Five Lots
According to New Civil Engineer, the framework has been structured following extensive pre-market engagement involving more than 100 industry organizations and various public bodies.
Here is the math behind the framework distribution:
| Lot | Scope and Geography | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Lot 1 | General construction works and services in England | £4.0bn |
| Lot 2 | Residential construction, decarbonisation, retrofit, and maintenance in England | £2.0bn |
| Lot 3 | Construction, housing, works, and services in Wales | £1.0bn |
| Lot 4 | Lower-value construction, housing, works, and services in Northern Ireland (up to £15m) | £250m |
| Lot 5 | Upper-value construction, housing, works, and services in Northern Ireland (£10m and above) | £750m |
Bidders face strict financial qualifying criteria. Minimum annual turnover requirements range from £20m for the smaller Northern Ireland lot up to £150m for the primary England construction category. However, consortiums and joint ventures are permitted to combine turnover to clear these thresholds.
Strategic Intent and Legislative Alignment
Craig Murphy, Director of Frameworks at Scape, emphasized that the new vehicle addresses modern regulatory shifts. As noted by New Civil Engineer, Murphy stated that the framework responds to an evolved legislative environment alongside demand for greater choice and flexibility over delivery partners.
Clients will be able to issue work through three distinct routes. These include direct awards for below-threshold projects, an objective scoring mechanism for larger undertakings, and further competitions. Crucially, Scape has barred clients from seeking fee or price submissions for competitive selections below £50m.
Key Deadlines and Award Timeline
Contractors and suppliers must submit their requests to participate by 2:00 PM on October 9, 2026. Following evaluations, five bidders per lot will progress from the Procurement Specific Questionnaire stage to the invitation to tender. The final award decisions are slated for July 2027, ahead of the framework’s operational go-live date in September 2027.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
