Levene Efficiency Scrutiny into Construction Procurement by Government
Following the Latham Report, the Cabinet Office commissioned Sir Peter Levene to review government procurement of construction and investigate how government could become a best practice client.
The Levene Efficiency Scrutiny into Construction Procurement by Government was published in 1995.
The report accepted that government was in part to blame for the poor performance of the construction industry, setting unrealistic timeframes and budgets, not properly understanding competition or risk and failing to create single points of contact.
It made a number of recommendations to improve the management of projects:
- Better communication with the industry to reduce disputes.
- Adoption of a more commercial approach.
- Negotiation based on value for money.
- Increased training for civil servants.
- The creation of single points of contact.
The Treasury assumed responsibility for coordinating construction procurement policy across government, and this role was later given to the Office of Government Commerce (OGC). NB OGC has now been absorbed into the Efficiency and Reform Group (ERG) within the Cabinet Office.
In March 1997, following the publication of the Levene Report, the Government Construction Clients’ Panel (GCCP) was established with membership from across government. This resulted in the creation of the Achieving Excellence initiative in 1999 to implement the recommendations contained in the report.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Construction industry reports since 1944.
- Egan Report.
- Latham Report.
- OGC.
Featured articles and news
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.
Comments
To start a discussion about this article, click 'Add a comment' above and add your thoughts to this discussion page.