What is the Construction Professional Services framework?
The Construction Professional Services framework opens for suppliers applications in February 2021. Here's what you need to know.
This year a new framework opens for supplier applications. The Construction Professional Services framework, or CPS framework for short, aims to simplify the buying process for Central Government and Wider Public Sector to access construction-related professional services.
The services provided should aim to support the delivery of policy, strategy, sustainable industry and innovation. In particular, the introduction of an Environmental Lot will allow public sector to work towards the government’s Net Zero 2050 target. Something we’re very excited to see.
Here’s what we know so far about the framework.
Is it replacing an existing framework?
Yes, the framework is replacing RM3741 Project Management and Full Design Team Services (which runs from May 2017 – November 2021). RM3741 has 32 Suppliers across 6 Lots and has seen a massive £130m(approx) per annum spend! 60% of this has been from Central Government (62 Buyers in total) and 40% from the Wider Public Sector (214 Buyers).
So, it’s definitely been a successful framework so far.
When will applications open for Construction Professional Services?
Applications were originally due on 10th February 2021, but have now been pushed back to open in March 2021. With a go Live date pencilled in for November 2021 (when RM3741 closes for good).
What’s the scope of the framework?
A wide range of services are available for Buyers to procure through the framework. So if you’re a Supplier who can provide any of these, then this one’s for you:
- Multi-Disciplinary Services
- Project Management Services
- Architectural Consultancy Services
- Cost Management Consultancy Services
- Civil and Structural Consultancy Engineering Services
- Building Services Consultancy Engineering
- Environmental Consultancy Services
What Lots are expected on Construction Professional Services, and will they be capped?
This is still subject to change, however the current thinking from Crown Commercial Service (CCS) – who run the framework – is that each Lot will be capped to 10-15 Suppliers each. Except for Lot 1, which will be uncapped but include a minimum quality threshold.
The Lots are planned to be:
- Built Environment and General Infrastructure – Construction Professional Services
- Urban Regeneration – Conceptual Plan Development Services
- International – Overseas Project Management Services
- High Rise – High Rise Design over 18m
- Defence – Security, Aviation, Maritime
- Environment – Planning Management Consultancy
What’s the estimated value of the framework?
A whopping £800m maximum total. That adds up to approximately £250m spent every year over the framework’s 4 year lifecycle. So, it’s got a lot of promise!
What if we don’t meet the requirements for the Construction Professional Services framework?
CCS are considering creating a separate Dynamic Purchasing System, for Buyer requirements that can be met by smaller suppliers, to increase SME engagement. Market engagement for this has not begun yet but is expected soon. So watch this space!
How will the framework work?
The CPS framework will operate in a usual framework agreement style. CCS envisage that Suppliers will need to demonstrate a proven track record in the market area they’re planning to bid for to enable them to start selling through it. Suppliers will need to be able to supply their services nationwide, as per requirements, and provide any new build, refurbishment or demolition services.
The framework enables Direct Award and Further Competition, so Buyers will be able to find the best fit Suppliers to meet their requirements.
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