Last month, Cumberland Council hosted a successful Capital Works Framework Event, at Harraby Community Centre in Carlisle.
The venue was buzzing with energy as over 75 industry professionals gathered for an informative session on the council’s upcoming Capital Works Framework.
A total of 76 attendees, representing 49 contracting organisations and three consultancy firms provided a comprehensive overview of the Framework, its structure, and the opportunities it offers to local contractors.
The Capital Works Framework is a strategic initiative designed to streamline the delivery of construction projects across the region. It is divided into three distinct work packages:
- General Building Works – up to £3 million
- Civil Engineering Works – up to £3 million
- Combined General Building and Civil Engineering Works – up to £6 million
This framework represents a change from the council's initial proposal, having been revised following feedback from the supplier day. The framework will last for four years.
Throughout the morning, attendees were given valuable insight into:
- Cumberland Council’s long-term goals and development vision
- A breakdown of how the Framework is structured and managed
- Details of the procurement process for upcoming projects
- Opportunities to engage, ask questions, and network with peers
Professional Services Partners working with the council will oversee individual project assignments throughout the duration of the framework, ensuring clarity and continuity for those involved.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said:
“We are incredibly pleased with the turnout and the level of engagement we saw.
This event marked a strong start to what we believe will be a dynamic and collaborative framework, driving high-quality capital works across the region.
“Working with local stakeholders is something we always strive for — and although it is not always possible, this event has opened the doors to two-way conversations with many contractors.
"We are exceptionally pleased with the response and hopeful that more businesses will come to the table in the future.”
The event also served as an open invitation for experienced contractors to consider participating in future tenders, with the council emphasising the importance of working alongside local partners to deliver meaningful results for the community.
For contractors who couldn’t attend but are interested in learning more about the Framework or upcoming opportunities, please contact procurement.events@cumberland.gov.uk.