Major project definition
According to GRIP Manual, Introduction to the Project Management manual, published by Network Rail in 2006, the term ‘major project’ refers to:
‘A bespoke project, programme or portfolio characterised by its complexity, level of investment and stakeholder involvement. Such a project is likely to have its own project control office established and have a dedicated project team under the direct control of a nominated person.'
The Major Projects Authority defined major projects (in the public sector) as projects that meet any of the following criteria:
- It requires HM Treasury approval.
- It could lead to a breach in departmental expenditure limits.
- It involves significant levels of unplanned spending.
- It could set an expensive precedent.
The CIOB Planning Protocol 2021 (CIOB PP21), a technical information sheet published by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) in February 2021, defines a major project as: ‘A project where the construction works are estimated to cost at least £10 million pounds sterling.’
In July 2021, the IPA published an updated routemap for novel or complex major projects. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/improving-infrastructure-delivery-project-initiation-routemap
NB Net Zero Strategy: Build Back Greener, published in October 2021 by HM Government, suggests: 'Major projects are defined as those which: require spending over and above departmental expenditure limits; require primary legislation; and are innovative or contentious.'
See also: Standard project.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Departmental Expenditure Limits DELs.
- Efficiency and Reform Group.
- Government Construction Strategy.
- Infrastructure and Projects Authority.
- Infrastructure UK.
- Major development.
- Major project construction contract.
- Major projects authority
- Nationally significant infrastructure projects.
- Standard project.
Featured articles and news
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.