Independent review of construction frameworks
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
On 9 February 2021, Professor David Mosey of King’s College London was appointed to lead an independent review of public sector frameworks. This move marks the potential of frameworks as a basis for implementing December 2020 Construction Playbook policies that include strategic planning, integrated teams, continuous improvement and the delivery of better, safer, faster and greener project outcomes.
[edit] Gold standard
The framework review is expected to deliver guidance about:
- Components of a ‘gold standard’ against which new proposed frameworks and framework contracts can be measured.
- Standard contract terms that support this standard.
- Training packages to enable adoption of the standard.
This is intended to enable contracting authorities to easily identify those frameworks that meet best practice and embody the policies set out in the playbook.
[edit] Purpose of playbook
The Construction Playbook contains 14 policy reforms to enable ‘faster, better, greener’ construction by transforming assessment, procurement and delivery of public works projects and programmes.
One of these reforms is effective contracting to ensure that contracts are structured to support an exchange of data and collaboration. These actions will ideally improve value and manage risk with clear expectations for continuous improvement.
The Construction Playbook contains a commitment to undertaking a review of current construction frameworks, which it suggests is integral to achieving the aims of effective contracting.
[edit] Frameworks
Across the public and private sectors there are a wide variety of frameworks; however, there is also a lack of clear guidance as to their preferred structure and ‘best practice’ features. As a result, the full potential of frameworks is not always well expressed or well understood, and they are not always successful in delivering their aims. Recommendations for the adoption and use of the most suitable framework structures and features are set out in the Construction Playbook.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief exoplanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.
Shading for housing, a design guide
From the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.
UK Standard Skills Classification (SSC)
A shared framework for describing skills needs.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.