The current framework has been in place since 2014 and is widely used by most Scottish councils.

The renewal builds on previous frameworks by fully incorporating new legislation, guidance (including the revised HSE analysts’ guide), certification, and codes of practice.

Scotland Excel said its member councils have been key in shaping this new framework with SEPA also being fully consulted.

Andrew Richmond, strategic procurement manager at Scotland Excel, said: “Our construction team is working hard to strengthen and grow our contract portfolio to meet the rising demand from councils around Scotland. It is heartening to see increasing spend across our construction frameworks. Scotland Excel is committed to delivering flexible supply arrangements that continue to meet the changing of councils as they continue to service local communities.

“We’re very proud of the comprehensive portfolio of construction contracts we’ve built over the past ten years. One of the long-established contracts is our asbestos framework, which has been supporting our members since its launch in early 2011.

“The framework is currently out to tender, offering opportunities to suppliers across three lots: surveys; removal and disposal; and analytical services.

“Asbestos is one of the most regulated industries in the UK. It’s crucial we use our experience and expertise in this area to continue to support councils and housing associations in ensuring housing stock and other public buildings are kept up to date in terms of asbestos surveys, removal, and testing.”

Scotland Excel – the national centre for procurement expertise for local government – has confirmation from 29 Scottish councils that they will use the new framework, which has a forecast spend of £48 million over four years.

The renewal has a new-look rates schedule following consultation with councils and suppliers. It will now include mobilisation and clearance set up costs. Council technical staff were key in designing this.

The existing and the new framework ensure quality and compliance with legislation covered by United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) accreditation and HSE licences.

Tender closes on 11 June with the framework set to be live from November 2018. Full details are available on Public Contracts Scotland.