The framework will cover several higher-risk residential towers alongside selected medium and low-rise blocks, with the council aiming to appoint contractors by October.

The programme is valued between £60m and £120m over the maximum six-year term.

A distinctive feature of the procurement is the pre-allocation of four work pipelines, each containing three higher-risk buildings. Contractors will compete initially for the £5.5m Mill Gate House remediation project, with framework rankings determining access to wider packages worth £7m-£9m each.

Mill Gate House, a 21-storey block containing 76 flats, will act as the gateway project for the framework. Planned works include fire door replacements, compartmentation repairs, new smoke ventilation systems, upgraded electrical infrastructure and water services improvements. Construction is expected to start in April 2027.

The council wants contractors with proven experience navigating the Building Safety Regulator regime, requiring bidders to demonstrate at least two completed Gateway 2 approvals and experience acting as both principal designer and principal contractor on higher-risk residential remediation schemes.

Typical works across the framework will include fire stopping, compartmentation upgrades, fire doors, sprinkler systems, evacuation alert systems, smoke ventilation, emergency lighting, structural repairs, asbestos removal and lift upgrades.

For more information email Portsmouth City Council.