What's Happening?
The Environment Agency has launched early market engagement for its Collaborative Delivery Framework 2 (CDF2), valued at up to £6bn. This framework, set to run from January 2027 to January 2035, will cover appraisal, design, technical support, and construction for the agency's asset management program. It aims to incorporate both nature-based and traditional engineering solutions across flood defense, navigation, water, land, and biodiversity assets. The agency is seeking feedback from suppliers on potential barriers to bidding and has published draft documents for consultation. Interested parties are invited to provide feedback and attend sessions to discuss the framework's details.
Why It's Important?
The CDF2 framework represents a significant investment in environmental infrastructure, highlighting the agency's commitment to sustainable asset management. By integrating nature-based solutions, the framework supports ecological preservation while addressing critical infrastructure needs. This initiative could drive innovation in environmental engineering and create opportunities for suppliers specializing in sustainable practices. The framework's focus on removing barriers to entry may encourage broader participation, fostering competition and potentially reducing costs.
What's Next?
Suppliers have until November 14 to provide feedback on the draft documents, with in-person and virtual sessions scheduled for October 21 and November 4, respectively. The agency will review the feedback to refine the framework before finalizing the procurement process. Successful implementation of CDF2 could set a precedent for future environmental projects, influencing policy and procurement strategies in the sector.
