ProCure 21+ finally launched

The Department of Health announced the launch for the new ProCure21+ framework on 3 August 2010.  It replaces the existing ProCure21 framework, which comes to an end in September, commencing 1 October 2010.

It is claimed that the new framework will save the NHS over £200m in procurement costs and deliver works more quickly.  Four of the contractors on the new framework remain the same, namely Kier, Integrated Health Projects (Vinci/Sir Robert JV), Interserve and Balfour Beatty.  The two new contractors are Willmott Dixon and Healthcare Partnership Solutions (Miller). 

Differences from the current Procure21

The DoH states that ProCure21+ will “streamline and simplify” procurement for refurbishment and new build projects.  There is also the promise of greater transparency and clear, understandable performance data for benchmarking of the framework contractors.

The construction contract which will form the basis of all ProCure21+ projects has been updated.  There are a number of key differences from the old framework, of which users need to be aware.

What next?

Bevan Brittan’s specialist health construction team will be hosting a seminar in the Autumn on the implications of ProCure21+ for health bodies, looking at the advantages and disadvantages of using the framework.  Further details to follow.