National Highways is setting the stage for an ambitious £6bn plan, aiming to enhance England’s strategic road network over the next six years.
- This new Scheme Delivery Framework 2 (SDF2) will succeed the current frameworks, enhancing infrastructure on over 4,500 miles of vital roadways.
- Procurement for the project is set to commence in September next year, with annual funding projected at £1bn.
- The framework seeks to involve a broader range of suppliers, including SMEs and local companies, by dividing contracts into regional lots.
- The initiative highlights a commitment to cost efficiency and productivity through standardised designs and improved contract management.
National Highways has unveiled a proposal to launch a £6bn framework aimed at substantial improvements to England’s key roadways. This framework, named the Scheme Delivery Framework 2 (SDF2), is designed to span six years, covering enhancements to the 4,500-mile strategic road network (SRN). This network, deemed critical to the national transport system, encompasses major motorways and A roads that facilitate the country’s traffic flow.
The agency has scheduled procurement to begin in September next year, anticipating an annual expenditure of £1bn. However, this is subject to modification as National Highways continues to refine its procurement strategy. The announcement has sparked interest from industry stakeholders, positioning the framework as a lucrative opportunity for both existing and potentially new market players.
This framework is set to replace the existing Scheme Delivery Framework and the Pavement Delivery Framework, both concluding in 2027. Among the current framework contractors are prominent firms such as Morgan Sindall, Amey, VolkerFitzpatrick, and Winvic. Successful new contractors will be tasked with renewing structures, paving, drainage, road restraints, and implementing technological advancements across the SRN.
Strategically, the SDF2 will divide projects into regional lots, a move aimed at broadening supplier participation by attracting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and leveraging local expertise. This tactical division not only fosters inclusivity but also enhances the competitive landscape, potentially driving innovation and efficiency.
National Highways is dedicated to cutting costs and enhancing productivity through the adoption of standard designs and less administratively demanding contracts. Based on the NEC4 suite of contracts, SDF2 promises streamlined administration for low-risk tasks and aims to nurture robust contractor-client relationships.
As part of its market engagement, National Highways is seeking feedback on various contracting models, underscoring its commitment to collaborative development. An online launch event is scheduled for 13 November, followed by three workshops in Birmingham aimed at garnering insights from interested parties. Suppliers wishing to participate must submit their expressions of interest by 6 November.
The SDF2 initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to upgrading England’s road infrastructure while fostering industry collaboration.
