United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, acting on behalf of three Lincolnshire NHS Trusts, has published a preliminary market engagement notice for its upcoming Minor Works, Repairs, Refurbishment and Maintenance Framework. With an estimated total value of £60 million including VAT and a potential five-year duration, this framework represents a significant opportunity for regional and national facilities management and construction suppliers.
At this stage, the notice is not a call for competition, but it provides valuable early insight into how the Trusts intend to shape the framework and how suppliers can influence the final specification.
Who Is Procuring the Minor Works Framework?
The framework will be let on behalf of the following contracting authorities:
- United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
- Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
- Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust
United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust is acting as the lead authority for the procurement.
What Is the Minor Works Framework?
The framework will cover minor works, repairs, refurbishment and maintenance services across NHS estates in Lincolnshire. It is intended to establish a compliant, flexible route to market for a range of building and works activities, supporting the ongoing operation of healthcare facilities.
The procurement will establish a framework agreement above the relevant threshold and is particularly suited to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including local contractors.
Early Market Engagement: Key Dates Suppliers Should Not Miss
A key feature of this notice is the emphasis on pre-market engagement. The Trusts are actively seeking supplier input to help shape the specification, lot structure and procurement approach.
Engagement Activity
- Virtual supplier engagement sessions:
- 19 January 2026
- 26 January 2026
- Sessions will last approximately 60 to 90 minutes
- Both sessions will cover the same content, so suppliers only need to attend one
- Engagement is being run in partnership with the Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce
The engagement process is designed to encourage participation from SMEs and to support suppliers who may be unfamiliar with the Central Digital Platform and the Procurement Act 2023.
Suppliers can register interest and access further details via the Atamis tendering portal.
Minor Works Framework Timeline
Based on the published notice, the expected timeline is as follows.
Indicative Procurement Timeline
Stage | Estimated timing | What suppliers should be doing |
Preliminary market engagement notice published | 18 December 2025 | Initial opportunity review and resource planning |
Supplier engagement sessions | 19 and 26 January 2026 | Attend sessions, ask questions and influence the specification |
Engagement deadline | 1 March 2026 | Submit feedback and ensure interest is registered |
Tender notice published | 2 March 2026 (estimated) | Final bid decision and mobilisation |
Evaluation and award | 2026 (indicative) | Manage submissions, clarifications and quality assurance |
Framework start date | 27 September 2026 | Prepare for call-off readiness |
Initial framework term | 27 September 2026 to 26 September 2029 | Deliver works and manage performance |
Possible extension | To 26 September 2031 | Continued delivery subject to extension |
This is a relatively short runway between tender publication and submission, making early preparation especially important.
Why Early Engagement Matters for This Framework
Unlike many frameworks, this procurement is actively inviting suppliers to help shape the requirement. Attending engagement sessions allows suppliers to:
- Understand the proposed lot structure and scope
- Influence commercial and contractual approaches
- Identify delivery expectations across NHS estates
- Clarify how SME participation will be supported
- Prepare more focused and compliant bids
Suppliers that engage early are typically better placed to respond effectively once the ITT is issued.
How Thornton & Lowe Can Support Suppliers Bidding for the Minor Works Framework
Thornton & Lowe supports construction, facilities management and maintenance providers across the NHS and wider public sector.
Early Framework and Engagement Strategy
We help suppliers prepare for engagement events, structure feedback and position themselves effectively ahead of tender release.
Bid Writing and Tender Support
Our bid writing team supports suppliers through selection and award stages, ensuring responses are clear, compliant and aligned to NHS evaluation criteria.
SME-Focused Support
For SMEs and regional contractors, we provide proportionate support that strengthens governance, policies and evidence without unnecessary overhead.
Tender Pipeline Monitoring
Through Tender Pipeline, suppliers can track updates to this framework and related NHS estates opportunities across the UK.
Bid Training and Capability Building
We also support internal teams with bid writing training and mentoring, improving confidence and consistency for future NHS frameworks.
What NHS Buyers Are Likely to Look For
While full evaluation criteria will be confirmed at ITT stage, suppliers should expect focus on:
- Technical competence and relevant experience
- Health and safety and compliance
- Ability to work in live healthcare environments
- Social value and local economic impact
- Capacity, responsiveness and value for money
Clear, evidence-based responses will be essential.
Final Thoughts
The Minor Works Framework for Lincolnshire NHS Trusts is a strong opportunity for contractors and facilities management providers, particularly SMEs operating in the region. The emphasis on early engagement and supplier input makes this a framework where preparation and participation can genuinely influence outcomes.
If you are considering bidding and want support with engagement strategy, bid preparation or tender delivery, Thornton & Lowe can support you from early planning through to framework award.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this notice a call for competition?
No. This is a preliminary market engagement notice, not a tender.
When is the tender expected to be published?
The estimated publication date is 2 March 2026.
Who should attend the engagement sessions?
Building, maintenance and works providers, particularly SMEs, interested in bidding for the framework.
How can Thornton & Lowe help?
Support includes engagement preparation, bid strategy, bid writing, Tender Pipeline access and training.
