The two frameworks – both of which will go live in April 2024 - provide a framework specifically for Scotland, along with a second covering all remaining areas of the UK. As with the existing iteration of the Professional Services framework, the Lot 1 providers will supply complete solutions covering the full spectrum of construction and premises consultancy services – with the new offering including management consultancy.

The Lot 1, full service solution allows clients to access single or multiple services required for their projects through the appointment of a single supplier. Equally, it allows for the appointment of a strategic partner with the capability to provide a range of services.

AtkinsRéalis has been appointed as the sole provider for the £780 million framework agreement that covers England, Wales and Northern Ireland. This follows on from its position on the current framework and will therefore provide additional consistency for clients procuring services throughout the transition period between iterations.

Meanwhile, the new £27m Scotland-specific framework has been developed with the opportunity to appoint multiple Lot 1 suppliers. Following the full evaluation of bidders both AtkinsRéalis and Turner & Townsend have been appointed to Lot 1 for Scotland.

Jason Stapley, chief procurement officer at Pagabo, said: “These appointments are a key milestone in our Professional Services framework journey, and we’re pleased to be making this announcement as we continue to progress the renewal of the framework overall with the two forthcoming iterations.

“Having multiple Lot 1 suppliers in Scotland has been a decision based on the way the market continues to evolve. Both AtkinsRéalis and Turner & Townsend have incredible credentials and the capability to serve the public sector and we look forward to working with them to support development in Scotland through this framework.”

The current iteration of the Professional Services framework will remain available for use until its expiry in early April 2024, when the new versions will go live.

Jonathan Oram, framework director at Pagabo, said: “The expiry of the current iteration and the commencement of the new offerings have been carefully coordinated to ensure that the transition from the current framework to the new versions for clients and suppliers is as seamless as possible. The appointment of AtkinsRéalis provides an extra level of service continuity for our clients as we progress towards the end of the current framework’s lifespan and the new offering going live.

“Our core aim remains to support clients with the quality suppliers and procurement processes they need to progress their projects quickly, painlessly and compliantly. With this in mind, the coming months will be focused on this service continuity. While the last date for new opportunities under the current framework will be 11 April 2024, we are on hand to advise clients on the best route forward for their requirements as that date draws closer.

“The evaluation for the remaining 22 service-specific lots is ongoing and will continue into early 2024 before announcing successful bidders and running our mobilisation sessions ahead of the framework going live in April.”

James Butler, managing director for Project and Programme Services at AtkinsRéalis, added: “Our re-appointment as Lot1 lead provider to the Pagabo Professional Services Framework in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and to the Scotland-specific framework, is testament to the work our teams have been delivering for organisations up and down the country over the last eight years. Under this new framework, our focus will continue to be on delivering best value solutions whilst helping to unlock social value and deliver better outcomes for clients and communities.”