The expanded and revamped £7bn framework replaces the National Major Works framework, which  has an upper value of £1.25bn over four years.

The framework introduces multiple lead contractors, supported by an extensive local supply chain, for the first time within Scape’s suite of national frameworks and has the highest value of any framework ever procured in the UK.

Mark Robinson, Scape Group Chief Executive, said: “The competition for this framework was fierce and the quality of bids extremely high.

“Willmott Dixon, Robertson, Wates and Lendlease evidenced the right blend of quality and value offers, along with the expertise and capacity to deliver the diverse needs of the public sector both now and in the future”

He added: “The possible Brexit cost to the construction sector due to a loss of EU talent, the increased costs of building material imports and higher tariffs could be significant, so a robust and stable delivery model led by strong contractors and supported by local enterprise, like the National Construction framework, will be an important delivery option for the public sector as we progress through the next four years.

“The biggest challenge for public sector bodies is continuing to deliver a high-quality, cost-effective built environment with enduring benefits for the local community at a time when resources are stretched to near-breaking point.

“It is the most challenging environment I have seen in my career.”