Manchester university seeks builders for £260m framework

The University of Manchester has launched a search for contractors to fulfil a £260m, four-year construction-works framework.

The university published a tender notice for the framework, which will run until 2027 for various construction works across the university’s estate. These include demolition, new build, refurbishment, decoration, as well as landscaping and external works.

The framework is split into four lots ranging in value from £1 to £20m.

• Lot one: works from £1 up to £499,999
• Lot two: works between £500,000 and £1,499,999
• Lot three: works between £1.5m and £4.999,999
• Lot four: works up to £20m.

The new framework comes just over a year after Manchester university sought suppliers for a £1.5bn innovation hub, as part of a joint venture with insurance giant Legal & General and developer Bruntwood.

Known as Bruntwood SciTech, the scheme will see 240,000 square metres of new commercial space developed south of the city centre near Piccadilly station.

Manchester is not the only higher education institution looking to upgrade its estate. In November, the University of Cambridge announced plans to appoint suppliers to an £80m construction framework. The Cambridge Construction Professional Services Framework is expected to initially run for four years, with the option of a two-year extension.

Parties interested in the University of Manchester’s new framework have until 11 April to apply.