The vast public works framework will be available for use by central Government departments and all other public sector bodies, including local authorities, blue light services and devolved bodies.

It is the first time a construction works framework has been drawn up for this scale of project pipeline.

It follows the award of professional services and infrastructure consulting engineer frameworks finally awarded to consultants last year after long delays.

If taken up by major Government clients it would supersede a mass of frameworks presently in operation bringing to an end significant procurement duplication in England.

John Welch, CCS’s Deputy Director for Construction, said: “This agreement will support construction and drive industry growth.  Its lotting structure has been designed to maximise opportunities for all sizes of company and that includes SMEs, which play a key role in UK construction.

“For example, standardised payment terms and other fair payment objectives are embedded within the framework scope.

“This agreement also facilitates the use of digitisation in construction and promotes the use of innovative solutions via modern methods of construction.”

The anticipated framework duration will be up to seven years.

Prompt payment initiatives and project bank accounts have been incorporated into the framework to support supply chains.

Interested firms have until 15 March to submit bids.

A bidders conference will take place on 8 February. In order to participate in the event bidders must register their interest via the construction mailbox.

The bid pack can be accessed from the CCS website.