Precise work levels are unknown over the term of the framework because Rowntree is awaiting formal go-ahead on several projects in the region.
Rowntree is planning to build a low-carbon model village of 540 homes at Osbaldwick.
Known as the Derwenthorpe development, its progress stalled while the European Commission investigated the City of York Council’s decision to sell the site to the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust without going out to open tender.
In May, the Commission decided not to refer the case to the European courts. If the scheme is cleared and the land deal with Rowntree does not need to be retendered, the framework firms will bid to carry out works on the big site.
Sixty four low-energy homes will form the first phase of the mixed affordable and private development on the outskirts of York.
The design echoes Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s century-old model village of workers cottages at nearby New Earswick.
Three houses will be built to Code for Sustainable Homes level 5 and the remainder will achieve level 4.