What's Happening?
The LHC Procurement Group has announced the appointment of 54 contractors to its £285 million Roofing Systems and Associated Works framework, known as RS5. This framework, which replaces RS4, is set to run until October 2029 and is available to public
sector clients across England, Scotland, and Wales. It supports both new-build and retrofit projects, including emergency repair work. The RS5 framework is divided into five workstreams: flat roofing, liquid flat roofing, pitched metal roofing, pitched roofing, and mixed roofing. Unlike its predecessor, RS5 is manufacturer-led, meaning contractors were appointed with approval from specific roofing system providers, ensuring projects are delivered using certified systems backed by full warranty protection. The framework also supports green and blue roofing systems, energy efficiency upgrades, and decarbonization measures.
Why It's Important?
The RS5 framework is significant as it aims to enhance the quality and reliability of roofing projects for public sector clients, ensuring installations meet high technical and regulatory standards. With 93% of the appointed firms being SMEs, the framework promotes local employment and community investment. It also aligns with sustainability goals by supporting energy efficiency and decarbonization measures. The framework's manufacturer-led approach reduces uncertainty and risk for clients, providing confidence in the quality of installations. Additionally, any surplus generated from the framework will be reinvested into the Community Benefit Fund, supporting projects that enhance local areas and promote sustainability.
What's Next?
The RS5 framework will be managed by LHCPG’s five regional business units, including LHC, Northern Procurement Alliance, South West Procurement Alliance, Scottish Procurement Alliance, and Welsh Procurement Alliance. As the framework progresses, it is expected to deliver numerous projects that contribute to local employment and community investment. The focus on sustainability and energy efficiency will likely drive further innovation in roofing technologies and practices. Public sector clients will continue to benefit from the framework's comprehensive support for new-build and retrofit projects, including emergency repairs.
Beyond the Headlines
The RS5 framework's emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency reflects broader trends in public sector procurement, where environmental considerations are increasingly prioritized. The manufacturer-led model may set a precedent for future frameworks, encouraging collaboration between contractors and system providers to ensure high-quality, certified installations. The reinvestment of surplus funds into community projects highlights the framework's commitment to social value, potentially influencing other procurement initiatives to adopt similar practices.
