STAR Minor Works Collaborative Open Framework

STAR Procurement are looking to establish a collaborative minor works framework to be used by its partners and other local contracting authorities as defined under Procurement Act 2023. A significant number of minor works procurements are completed each year, and there is recognition of the resources required by Councils to prepare and run these processes, alongside Suppliers to submit bids for these. After consideration of the different options, an Open Framework has been deemed a potential suitable solution that would be established for up to 8 years, allowing a quicker and efficient route for contracts to be awarded. An Open Framework offers the potential to allow for periodic admission of new suppliers over its lifetime (must be re-opened at least once within the first three years). This would allow the Framework to remain relevant, competitive and accessible throughout its duration. The call-off mechanism from the Framework will be direct award or further competition.

THIS IS NOT A CALL FOR COMPETITION
The Soft Market Test is intended to allow interested organisations with relevant experience to outline their views and provide information with no commitment to themselves or the Council.
During the Soft Market Test, we would like to gauge the level of interest and seek feedback from contractors on the proposed Framework approach.
Stage 1 - Interested suppliers are required to complete the following company information form and a short questionnaire (Appendix 1). Suppliers who complete and return the questionnaire may be invited to meet with Council representatives to discuss its requirements.
The questionnaire should be returned via The Chest - https://www.the-chest.org.uk/ by 28th August 2026 12pm.
If Suppliers have any questions about this soft market test, such questions should be submitted to the Council using the ‘Question and Answer’ facility within the opportunity advertised on The Chest. A copy of the question and a copy of the written reply may be circulated to all Suppliers, with anonymity of the Supplier preserved. Suppliers must not raise questions through any other channels, including emails direct to the Council or to STAR Procurement. No questions will be responded to, other than those raised through The Chest as described above.
We encourage your participation in this soft market testing exercise, but must emphasise that your involvement in this exercise will not carry any commercial advantage in any ensuing procurement process.
No information provided in response to this soft market testing exercise will be used in any evaluation of any subsequent response to a procurement exercise.