A UK public sector procurement specialist has launched a £4bn direct award model to speed up procurement in low carbon and renewables projects.
Scape’s Utilities Works and Services frameworks comprises a £3bn framework that covers England, Wales and Northern Ireland and a separate dedicated £1bn framework for Scotland.
Following an evaluation process, Scape has appointed Kier and McLaughlin & Harvey to deliver projects in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and McLaughlin & Harvey and RJ McLeod to lead the Scotland framework.
All appointments were made on the basis of compliance with the UK Utilities Contract Regulations and Scottish Utilities Contracts Regulations.
Mark Robinson, Scape Group’s Chief Executive, said: “The Scape Utilities frameworks have been created to support better-connected communities, future-proof national infrastructure and scale-up green energy projects that support the use of renewables.
“These new frameworks will help clients accelerate the works and services needed to support a low-carbon economy in the years to come. As with all our frameworks, enhanced social value will underpin every project, ensuring we leave a positive, sustainable legacy within each community.”
The SCAPE Utilities Works and Services frameworks will now enter the mobilisation phase, with clients anticipated to be able to begin using these from the end of February 2024.
The frameworks have been created to provide clients with access to specialist contractors capable of helping them to deliver the low carbon energy, transport and water infrastructure needed to meet sustainability targets and serve community needs in the years ahead.
The frameworks will enable the delivery of projects across a variety of sectors including renewables, docks, ports and harbours and energy.
The direct award Utilities frameworks operate a parallel lotting structure, which gives clients a choice of contractors, ensuring efficient procurement that demonstrates value for money.
Scape is a member of, and actively seeking verification through, Constructing the Gold Standard pilot scheme, an integrated and collaborative scheme facilitated by Constructing Excellence, designed to improve value, reduce risk and improve sustainability through public sector frameworks.
Scape is also accredited with Carbon Code Champion status, the highest level of compliance to the Carbon Reduction Code for the Built Environment.