NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) has signalled the upcoming procurement of a Public Sector Construction Works 2 framework. It is a planned framework valued at £900,000,000 (including VAT) over four years. Covering building and construction works from small reactive projects through to major national schemes, this framework will represent a significant route to market for contractors of all sizes.
The tender notice is expected in September 2026, so there is time to prepare, but not to waste. Contact Thornton & Lowe to assess your fit and begin building your evidence base.
Lot Structure: Value-Banded for All Sizes
- Lot 1: Minor Works (£0m to £5m): Regional scope, accessible to smaller regional contractors and specialists.
- Lot 2: Intermediate Works (£5m to £15m): Regional scope, suited to mid-size firms with demonstrated delivery capacity.
- Lot 3: Major Works (£15m+): National coverage, aimed at large-scale contractors capable of multi-site delivery.
This tiered approach is well designed for the market. It prevents smaller firms being crowded out of the lower value lots while ensuring major works go to contractors with the financial and operational capacity to deliver them.
Who Should Be Considering This?
This is a framework for building and construction contractors, not consultancies (those firms should look at the separate NHS SBS Construction Consultancy Framework). Whether you're a regional refurbishment specialist or a national main contractor, there's likely a lot that fits your profile. The framework is also open to the wider NHS SBS Approved Organisations list, which includes NHS bodies and other public sector clients, so the pipeline extends well beyond NHS-only work.
Bidding Considerations
- Lot selection: Be honest about your capacity. The lot boundaries are value-based; bidding beyond your financial and operational capabilities will show in your accounts and references.
- NHS SBS processes: NHS SBS has well-established procurement processes and compliance requirements. Familiarity with their frameworks, governance standards and reporting expectations will strengthen your submission.
- Plan for the long term: A four-year framework rewards suppliers with robust systems for programme management, quality assurance and supply chain management. Make sure your bid evidences these, not just your project delivery track record.
View the official notice on Find a Tender.
Quick Facts
- Lead authority: NHS Shared Business Services Ltd
- Value: £900,000,000 (including VAT)
- Term: 4 years
- Lots: 3 (Minor, Intermediate, Major Works)
Key Dates
- Tender notice publication (estimated): 7 September 2026
If you want to secure a place on a high-value, long-term public sector construction framework, the groundwork starts now. Reach out to Thornton & Lowe to begin your assessment.
