The move follows extensive pre-market engagement undertaken as part of the development of its forthcoming National Construction Work and Services Framework, which will be shortly going to tender.

Feedback from contractors, clients and wider stakeholders highlighted strong demand for a dedicated procurement solution focused specifically on defence.

SCAPE has now developed a standalone framework designed to address the unique operational, security and delivery requirements associated with projects across defence estates and other critical national infrastructure environments.

The £8.5bn, four-year deal will provide public sector organisations with an efficient route to market for construction works requiring enhanced security measures, specialist expertise and delivery experience within complex operational settings

There will be up to six delivery partners appointed across the framework. The proposed framework structure comprises of two lots:

• Lot 1: Defence and Complex Environments (Lower) for projects valued up to £15 million, with a total category value of £500 million.
• Lot 2: Defence and Complex Environments (Upper) for larger-scale projects, with a total category value of £8 billion.

Both lots will support the delivery of construction projects requiring high levels of security clearance, enhanced personnel vetting and robust digital security arrangements.

Craig Murphy, Director of Frameworks, at SCAPE, said: “The UK’s defence estate is entering a period of significant investment, and we’ve seen that demand for efficient procurement solutions that support the smooth delivery of the projects is growing with speed.

“Our engagement with clients and delivery partners highlighted that there is strong demand for a dedicated solution that reflects the unique requirements and governance of defence and complex environments

“By establishing a standalone solution, we’re creating a route to market that helps organisations procure smarter, reduce risk and access specialist expertise, while maintaining the collaboration, compliance and value for money our frameworks allow.

“We look forward to continuing our engagement with industry as we develop a framework capable of supporting the delivery of vital infrastructure across the UK.”