The North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO) has launched a market consultation for a planned highways surfacing framework worth up to £600m.
A preliminary market engagement notice was published today (17 April), ahead of the full tendering process due to begin in late June.
The NEPO210 framework is due to run from November 2025 to October 2033.
It will deliver planned and reactive maintenance for councils and other public sector clients in the region.
Activities will include resurfacing and reconstruction work on roads, footways and car parks.
Thin surfacing, anti-skid coatings and response to major incidents are also expected to be included.
Contractors may be required to support winter maintenance operations during severe weather events.
The framework will also cover pothole repairs, patching, reinstatements and construction of footway vehicle crossovers.
Work will be let under call-off arrangements and the total value will depend on take-up by participating authorities.
NEPO has estimated the total value of the framework at £600m including VAT.
However, it has not confirmed a breakdown by lot or region, nor the likely number of suppliers to be appointed.
The contracting authority is the Association of North East Councils, based at the Northern Design Centre in Gateshead.
As part of the engagement process, NEPO has published a market questionnaire on the Open e-Tendering platform with responses due by 2 May.
Suppliers wishing to attend an online engagement session scheduled for 6 May must submit a completed questionnaire before the deadline. Participation in the session is not mandatory and will not confer an advantage in the future procurement.
NEPO has stated that the feedback will help shape the structure and design of the framework.
Source: Gov.uk Find a Tender