Wedoany.com Report-Apr 1,The Department for Education (DfE) has recently announced the launch of a new construction framework, CF25, which is set to significantly impact the education sector in England. This framework, valued at up to £15.4 billion (with VAT included), will replace the current Construction Framework 21 (CF21) and will come into effect from January 2026, with the option to extend it further until 2028.
The new framework is designed to support the construction of new schools, colleges, universities, and community facilities across the country. The procurement process for this framework is structured around 10 regional lots, with projects valued at over £12 million in the North and South, and ranging from £4.4 million to £15 million for other lots. Bidders will first need to complete a pre-qualification questionnaire to apply for specific lots, and contractors can apply for overlapping lots in adjacent regions, provided they state their preferences.
To ensure fairness and efficiency, the framework will limit the number of suppliers to 10 per high-value lot and 7 per low-value lot. Contracts will be awarded either through a mini-competition or direct allocation. The DfE emphasizes that the framework will help ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget, while also contributing to the growth of the construction industry in England.
The launch of CF25 is part of the DfE’s broader strategy to support long-term investment, innovation, and consistent delivery in the public sector. All public bodies, including local authorities, academies, universities, and LocatED Property Limited, are invited to participate. The deadline for expressions of interest is 12 pm on 7 May 2025, with contracts expected to be awarded by December 2025.
In summary, the CF25 framework represents a significant step forward in the construction of education facilities across England, with a clear focus on efficiency, quality, and innovation. The extended duration of the framework is intended to support these goals and ensure sustained investment in the sector.
