£180m construction framework launched
Up to £180m of regional construction work could be created through a new West Midlands Contractor Framework. The framework, which was unveiled at County Hall Worcester, will allow local construction companies to bid for projects worth more than £1m. The chairman of Herefordshire and Worcestershire Constructing Excellence (HAWCE), which organised the event, told Insider that the framework was set to have “an extremely positive” effect on the region's construction industry.
Andrew James, the chairman of HAWCE, made the announcement at the launch of the framework, which was attended by 140 local business representatives.
The selected framework contractors through whom the projects will be delivered are Kier Moss, Speller Metcalfe and Thomas Vale.
The framework was set up by Worcestershire County Council, Herefordshire Council, West Mercia Police Authority and Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service. It will deliver construction projects worth £1m and more, and leaders estimate that the framework could see up to £180m of work procured across the region over the next four years.
Projects will include new schools, libraries and public authorities.
James described the framework as “important and timely news for the construction industry in the two counties”.
He said: “It is very clear that there are real opportunities, in particular for small and medium sized businesses, to be part of the supply chain for many construction projects over the next four years within the two counties. There was a welcome feeling of positivity amongst the speakers and guests; a bit of hope against a backdrop of the doom and gloom talk of government spending cuts.”
James said that companies bidding for the contracts must have “excellent health and safety contracts and workmanship” amongst other traits.
Steve Speller, managing director and founder of Speller Metcalfe, said: “We are very keen to use local companies to deliver the projects and the evening gave us and them an opportunity to talk on a one to one basis about how they can be part of the supply chain.”
