Cyntra estimates about £400m worth of work will be channeled through its new national specialist framework team over four years.

The procurement efficiency body represents a host of councils and housing associations in London and the home counties, some of which operate nationally.

Under the scheme contractors will sign up to a long term qualifying agreement that allows social housing providers to call off work without contravening Official Journal of the European Union tendering rules.

The first four lots have been released today with a further five due out shortly.