STARFour Framework: Procurement Timeline, Supplier Opportunities and How to Prepare

The Department for Transport has published a pipeline notice for the Specialist Technical and Commercial Advisory for Rail and Other Transport Systems Framework (STARFour). With an estimated total value of £420 million including VAT, a four-year term and a planned tender publication date of 8 May 2026, STARFour is a major upcoming framework for suppliers operating across rail and wider transport systems.

For consultancies, engineering specialists and commercial advisory providers, this framework represents both a significant opportunity and a clear signal to begin structured preparation now rather than waiting for the tender to go live.

What Is the STARFour Framework?

STARFour will succeed the current STARThree framework, which itself replaced the STARTwo framework. Managed by the Department for Transport’s Group Commercial Directorate, STARFour will be a closed, multi-lot framework agreement providing access to specialist technical and commercial advisory services across all transport sectors, not just rail.

The framework will support the Department for Transport, its arm’s length bodies and other qualifying public sector organisations. It is intended to maintain a flexible, fit-for-purpose route to market as transport challenges continue to grow, particularly around decarbonisation, net zero, multi-modal integration and industry restructuring.

Importantly, the pipeline notice confirms a continued commitment to SME participation, innovation and value for money through the use of mini-competitions and direct awards.

STARFour Procurement Timeline: Key Dates for Suppliers

One of the most useful aspects of the pipeline notice is the early visibility it provides over the likely procurement timetable. For a framework of this size, the timeline is critical to bidding success.

Indicative STARFour Timeline

This gives suppliers time to prepare before the tender is published. Those who use this time effectively will be in a much stronger position than those who wait until May 2026 to act.

Why STARFour Matters for SMEs and Specialist Providers

Although STARFour is a large national framework, the Department for Transport has clearly stated that SME participation remains a priority. That said, competition is likely to be strong, with established incumbents and well-resourced consultancies expected to bid.

For SMEs and niche specialists, common challenges include:

• Understanding complex framework structures and lot strategies
• Demonstrating credibility and governance at scale
• Aligning evidence to selection and award criteria
• Managing the resource demands of framework bidding

These challenges are not insurmountable, but they do require early planning and a clear strategy.

How Thornton & Lowe Helps Suppliers Prepare for STARFour

Thornton & Lowe supports suppliers across rail, transport and professional services to improve framework bid outcomes and long-term success.

Early Framework Strategy and Readiness

We help organisations assess whether STARFour is the right framework opportunity and how best to approach it, including bid or no-bid decisions, competitor awareness and lot positioning.

Bid Writing and Framework Submissions

Our bid writing and consultancy team supports suppliers through selection and award stages, ensuring responses are compliant, evidence-led and aligned to the evaluation criteria.

SME-Focused and Proportionate Support

For SMEs, we provide practical support that strengthens credibility without unnecessary complexity. This includes policy development, compliance checks and shaping delivery models that resonate with public sector buyers.

Bid Training and Capacity Building

We also support longer-term capability through bid writing training and mentoring, helping teams improve consistency and confidence across future framework and call-off bids.

What Buyers Are Likely to Look for in STARFour Bids

Based on previous Department for Transport frameworks, suppliers should expect a strong focus on:

• Relevant technical and sector expertise
• Clear delivery methodologies linked to transport outcomes
• Commercial robustness and risk management
• Social value aligned to government priorities
• Evidence of innovation and continuous improvement

Successful bids clearly demonstrate how experience translates into outcomes, rather than relying on generic claims.

Making STARFour Work Beyond Framework Appointment

Winning a place on STARFour is only the starting point. Real value comes from securing call-off work once the framework is live.

Thornton & Lowe also supports suppliers with mini-competition responses, pricing strategy, commercial modelling and framework performance improvement, helping ensure the framework becomes an active route to growth rather than a passive credential.

Final Thoughts

STARFour is a significant upcoming framework with clear opportunities for both established providers and ambitious SMEs. The published pipeline and timeline make one thing clear. The work that determines success should start now, not in May 2026.

If you are considering STARFour and want to strengthen your approach, Thornton & Lowe can support you from early pipeline planning through to framework delivery. Contact us today to get prepared for this opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the STARFour tender expected to be published?

The estimated publication date is 8 May 2026.

Is STARFour suitable for SMEs?

Yes. The framework is intended to encourage SME participation, although competition will be strong.

What procurement procedure will be used?

STARFour is expected to use the Competitive Flexible Procedure under the Procurement Act 2023.

How can Thornton & Lowe help with STARFour?

Support includes framework strategy, pipeline planning, bid writing, Tender Pipeline access, training and post-award support.