The Innovation Chain North (ICN) framework, led by Great Places Housing Group, is one of the largest and most strategically significant construction procurement vehicles currently in development for the North of England. With an estimated value of £1.5 billion including VAT and an eight-year term, this multi-lot framework encompasses main contracting, modular build, and a wide range of professional services supporting housing delivery and regeneration.
For construction contractors, modern methods of construction (MMC) specialists, and built environment professional services firms looking to grow their presence in the Northern housing sector, ICN is a framework worth planning for now. Contact Thornton & Lowe for an expert, rapid review of your suitability and a clear action plan.
About the Innovation Chain North Framework
Great Places Housing Group is a leading Northern housing association, and ICN has been designed as a procurement vehicle serving not just Great Places but a wider group of participating social landlords and public bodies across the North of England. The framework's name reflects its ambition: to bring innovation into the delivery of housing and regeneration, embracing modern construction methods alongside traditional approaches.
The multi-lot structure is central to ICN's appeal. It creates distinct routes to market for main contractors delivering traditional housing schemes, for businesses specialising in off-site manufacturing and modular construction, and for the professional services firms – architects, engineers, project managers, and surveyors – who support delivery. This means the framework is genuinely accessible to businesses of different sizes and specialisms, not just Tier 1 contractors.
Once appointed, framework suppliers benefit from a simplified call-off process – you qualify once and then compete for or receive direct appointments within the framework throughout the eight-year term. For a broader overview of how this works in practice, read expert tips on framework agreements.
Bidding Considerations
- Choose your lots carefully: The framework rewards specialism. Review the lot structure in the published tender documents and target the lots where your track record and capacity are strongest – overcommitting can weaken a submission.
- Eight years is a long commitment: The framework's duration is longer than most. Show how your business is positioned for the long term – not just your current capability, but your investment plans, pipeline management, and adaptability to change over the housing sector's cycles.
- MMC and modular capability: If your business has off-site manufacturing or modular construction experience, make this central to your bid for relevant lots. ICN's name signals that modern methods are a genuine priority, not an afterthought.
- Collaborative track record: Housing associations and consortia like Great Places often value suppliers who can demonstrate experience working in genuine partnership – with clients, with supply chains, and with communities.
- Be ready for mini-competitions: A framework appointment is the first step. Robust processes, responsive teams, and strong account management will be essential for winning and delivering call-offs over the duration.
Quick Facts
- Framework value: £1,500,000,000 including VAT
- Lead authority: Great Places Housing Group Limited
- Duration: 8 years
- Scope: Main contractors, modular build, and professional services
- Geography: North of England, multiple participating bodies
- View the notice on Find a Tender
Key Dates
- Estimated tender publication: 4 October 2027
With nearly two years before the estimated tender date, there is time to prepare properly – but that time is best used actively, building your evidence base, reviewing your lot strategy, and ensuring your business is positioned to compete when the procurement goes live.
For tailored advice on the Innovation Chain North framework, including strategy, lot selection, and bid readiness, speak to Thornton & Lowe. We know what it takes to win on frameworks of this scale.
