Scape has recently announced their new Regional Construction framework for public sector projects in the Midlands and East of England, replacing the current EMPA framework, to generate a £1.1 billion work pipeline over the next four years.

Eleven industry partners have been selected to lead the £1.1 billion framework including three regional contractors and members of the National Federation of Builders (NFB). Ashe Construction, RG Carter Building, and GF Tomlinson have demonstrated their extensive local knowledge and demonstrable experience of working collaboratively to deliver a range of public sector projects. 

The National Federation of Builders (NFB) has played an active role in pointing out the lack of SME participation in previous building frameworks. In April 2016, the NFB highlighted that Scape frameworks denied capable regional contractors of bidding for work opportunities, putting contracts out of the reach of SMEs.

Richard Beresford, chief executive of the NFB, said: “The NFB is pleased that Scape has recognised the value of recruiting regional contractors who have demonstrated that they can deliver a range of high-quality and cost effective public sector projects.

“The public sector is increasingly recognising that local regional contractors are central to the development of their local economies.  They have local communities at heart because they employ, train, and invest money locally and represent value for money. For every £1 spent with an SME, 90p remains in the local economy.”