A major social housebuilding initiative valued up to £500m is being spearheaded by a northwest consortium.
- JV North will renew its procurement framework from 2025 to 2029, aiming to build over 3,000 homes.
- Construction firms of all scales are encouraged to participate in this extensive housing project.
- Consultants are needed across various roles, including architectural and engineering services.
- The procurement process and framework start in December 2024 with final awards in May 2025.
A northwest consortium, known as JV North, is embarking on a significant social housing project with a renewed procurement framework valued up to £500 million. This new framework is set to span from 2025 to 2029, with the ambitious goal of constructing over 3,000 homes. It involves 15 different members, including housing associations and local authorities such as Bury Council, Cobalt Housing, and Weaver Vale Housing Trust.
The framework encourages participation from construction companies of varying sizes, segmented into three financial categories: projects valued at up to £4 million, those between £4 million and £12 million, and projects exceeding £12 million. Approximately 10 contractors are expected to be appointed per lot, offering significant opportunities across the board.
In addition to construction firms, the consortium is seeking consultants for numerous essential services, including architectural roles, engineering, and for the first time, principal designers focusing on building regulations. This expansion marks a comprehensive approach to ensuring quality and compliance in their housing projects.
JV North is managed by Saffer Cooper Consultancy, which also guides its development programmes. Sean Stafford from the consultancy highlights the shared vision with the government to tackle the housing crisis, emphasising the importance of the new framework, which follows previous successful initiatives that have delivered over 10,000 homes.
Leading the consortium, John Bowker underscores the importance of partnerships, not just among JV North’s members but also with the businesses selected for their frameworks. He stresses the vital role of contractors and consultants in meeting the demand for quality housing that meets the needs of the community while creating appealing neighbourhoods.
The schedule for the framework begins with virtual engagement sessions in December 2024, inviting contractors and consultants to participate. Invitations to tender will be released in January 2025, with the deadline set for March. Successful candidates will be announced by May, paving the way for the framework’s commencement in August 2025.
The initiative reflects a combined effort to address housing needs and establish thriving communities.
