National Highways announces multi-billion-pound road renewals - The Rugby Observer

National Highways announces multi-billion-pound road renewals

Rugby Editorial 16th Sep, 2021 Updated: 16th Sep, 2021   0

National Highways today announced deals with 50 supply chain partners to carry out up to £3.6 billion worth of renewals to keep England’s motorways and major A roads running safely and smoothly.

This work is awarded as part of the government-owned company’s brand new six-year Scheme Delivery Framework (SDF). The  framework will enable the delivery  of renewals across a range of activities, including  substantial  work  on  barriers and drainage, traffic management activities and design services for a range of projects.

Duncan Smith, Acting Executive Director for Operations at National Highways, said:

Today’s announcement marks the start of a new way to keep the country’s motorways and major A-roads in top condition by delivering the largest and most comprehensive renewals programme we have ever embarked on.




The Scheme Delivery Framework will allow us to deliver these vital activities, ensuring the Strategic Road Network remains safe and serviceable, so road users can continue enjoying the benefits of smooth, reliable journeys.

The new approach enables a diverse pool of suppliers of all sizes to work directly with National Highways.


Approximately 23% of the overall framework value has been awarded to SMEs, so creating a secure pipeline of work and increasing innovation across the board.

Social value was inherent throughout the procurement process ensuring that suppliers are measured on their contribution and impact socially within each region.

Key themes include:

  • Helping local communities to recover from the impact of Covid-19
  • Creating new businesses, new jobs and new skills
  • Tackling workforce inequality

Duncan added:

The framework offers a blend of large capital work along with smaller specialist opportunities that maximises the ability for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to develop a direct relationship with National Highways, driving growth within the industry and introducing more innovation.

The SDF says it supports the delivery of National Highways’ decarbonisation, sustainability and environmental ambitions across its renewals programme. It says it limits repeat maintenance, reducing the exposure of the workforce to traffic and reduces the overall cost of maintaining the network. In addition, as part of mobilisation, awarded suppliers will develop carbon reduction plans.

For further information about the Scheme Delivery Framework see the contract page online.

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