The Department of Health and Social Care, working with the newly-formed National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority, has launched a preliminary market engagement process covering plans to deliver primary and community healthcare buildings under long-term PPP contracts.

DHSC stressed that all proposals remain at the early scoping stage, with no final decisions yet on delivery models or procurement timelines.

An indicative capital value of £1bn has been published, but this could shift based on feedback from the market.

The 30-year programme, flagged in the government’s latest 10-Year Infrastructure Document, is expected to cover design, build, finance, operation, and maintenance of new health facilities – but not the delivery of clinical services.

Interested parties across the construction supply chain have until 3pm on Friday 11 July to register for initial engagement events, which will include Q&As and presentations. The full engagement exercise is expected to run until 22 August.

If Government proceeds with the PPP plan, tender documents could be released next summer, with project delivery beginning from mid-2027 and running through to 2057.

Small businesses and social enterprises are being encouraged to get involved early, with DHSC stating the process is open to all persons who are interested in participating.

Firms can register via this link.