New £1.2bn framework opens for applications from offsite specialists
A new £1.2bn framework to deliver homes constructed off site is now open for applications from specialist contractors.
NH3, the framework for modern methods of construction (MMC) of new homes from LHC, the public sector construction framework provider, will operate across England, Scotland and Wales. It covers low-, medium- and high-rise buildings, as well as specialist accommodation.
The framework, which replaces NH2, is expected to support public sector organisations to increase the use of MMC in their contracts and help deliver low- and net-zero carbon homes in a cost-efficient way.
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NH2 runs until April 2023. Its current contractors include Engie Regeneration, Hatch, Homes Accelerator, Ilke Homes, Impact Modular, Innovare Systems, ISO Spaces South West, LoCal Homes, Module-Ar, Rollalong, and Zed Pods.
NH3 will be delivered through LHC London and South East (LSE), the Scottish Procurement Alliance (SPA), the South West Procurement Alliance (SWPA), Consortium Procurement Construction (CPC) and the Welsh Procurement Alliance (WPA).
Dean Fazackerley, head of technical procurement at LHC, said NH3 will “build on the success” of NH2, which has so far enabled £93.5m-worth of projects, with a total forecast value of £277m.
“It has contributed to the number of low-carbon, modern apartments and homes for housing associations and local authorities across the country, using modern methods of construction and off-site techniques to produce cheaper-to-heat homes for the communities they serve,” Mr Fazackerley said.
Developments procured or delivered through NH2 include 400 units currently being built by Rollalong for Magna Housing Association and Wiltshire Council in the South West.
The framework has also been used to deliver 25 one- and two-bedroom affordable apartments on behalf of Bromley Council in London.
Mr Fazackerley said NH3 will initially cover a range of MMC categories, and features four distinct workstreams “[which] we hope will encourage both manufacturers and those that can deliver main contractor services for MMC to apply.
“We also hope SMEs will apply and take advantage of the opportunities available to them through this new framework.”
The four workstreams cover 3D modular systems, 2D panelised systems, main contractors delivering MMC solutions, and groundworks and site preparation for MMC housing projects.
The deadline for applications to join the framework is 14 October 2022.
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