A lot under the framework is being dedicated specifically to smaller contractors with works valued at under £1m.

JV North will create an unlimited list of suppliers for their housing association members to work with.

Smaller contracts will be divided into six areas: new build, refurbishment, modular build, disabled adaptations, supported housing and fire safety.

Contractors can apply for any or all of the lots.

Last month JV North announced the contractors and consultants chosen for the framework for schemes valued at £1m and over.

The winning contractors were Anwyl Construction, Bardsley, Casey Construction, Galliford Try, Kier Living, Mears Living, Rowlinson Construction, Seddon, Termrim Construction, United Living, Wates and Willmott Partnership.

The sub-£1m framework is aimed firms who miss out on procurement opportunities because they think the work tendered is too big for them.

SME contractors can apply via a new procurement tool called the Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) portal here

It is an open list and new suppliers can join at any point. Is anticipated to run for four years from September.

Sean Stafford, who is Director of Saffer Cooper which manages JV North’s development programme, said: “The Dynamic Purchasing System simplifies the procurement process which really appeals to smaller SMEs.

“Many are put off by lengthy procurement processes or think the work is too big for them and will be taken by larger contractors.

“This is why we have split the four-year framework into two lots; one for works over £1m and now one for works under £1m.

“JV North members will have a significant amount of home building schemes valued under £1m needing to be completed in the next four years that will be perfectly suited to smaller contractors.

“We know a lot of smaller contractors deliver excellent work and want to tap into this.

“By using SMEs, JV North’s housing association members will be able to invest further in their local communities, supporting businesses and local economies.”

JV North comprises of 11 social housing association members spanning Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Nottingham and Preston.