£500m consultancy framework launched to empower Scotland’s utilities sector

The framework has been designed to empower utility sector organisations to shape their utilities programmes and projects, whilst supporting the delivery of low-carbon infrastructure and sustainability targets.

Perfect Circle and Arcadis (with subsidiary support from AtkinsRéalis) have been appointed to deliver projects and professional services across the framework – which has been procured in compliance with the Scottish Utilities Contracts Regulations.

Running for a period of four years, with an option to extend for a further two years, the new Utilities Consultancy Framework is aligned to deliver solutions and services across a range of sectors, including ports and harbours, rail and metro, nuclear, aviation, water, renewables, energy (gas and electricity including maintenance), and telecommunications. Clients will have access to a suite of professional services including strategic advice, engineering services, design services, project management and quantity surveying.

This direct award framework operates a parallel lotting structure, which gives clients a choice of industry-leading consultants, providing greater certainty for cost and project timelines, as well as enabling clients to quickly leverage commissions and ensure the earliest possible completion.

This new framework follows the announcement of SCAPE Scotland’s Utilities Works and Services frameworks, which launched in January with the aim of helping utility sector clients futureproof their infrastructure delivery, while responding to their wider sustainability goals.

Mark Robinson, group chief executive for SCAPE Scotland, said: “The new utilities consultancy framework for Scotland has been created to give our clients access to a pool of market-leading professional services, while complementing SCAPE Scotland’s suite of consultancy, civil engineering and construction frameworks. The chosen delivery partners align with or values of sustainability and social impact – principles that guide every project procured via our frameworks.

“Leveraging strategic advice, innovative design, and efficient project management, SCAPE Scotland’s goal is to help the utility sector enhance the delivery of low-carbon infrastructure projects, from unlocking the value of existing assets to navigating the challenges of realising futureproofed, innovative schemes. Ultimately, this translates into improved services, economic growth, and a more sustainable future for communities across Scotland.”

John Simons, group procurement director at SCAPE Scotland, added: “SCAPE Scotland’s partner selection process ensures that only the most capable and collaborative firms join the frameworks. The partners on our new framework bring a wealth of experience and expertise. As with all our frameworks, the new utilities consultancy offer operates a direct award model, promoting transparency, agility, and best practice. By not only adhering to industry regulations but continuing to invest in research and development, SCAPE Scotland’s goal is to create a robust foundation for successful project delivery now and in the future.”

Victoria Brambini, managing director for Perfect Circle, a consortium of top-tier professional services partners, commented: “Perfect Circle is delighted to be awarded the SCAPE Scotland Utilities Consultancy Services framework. Our unique prime contracting collaboration will allow utility providers to use this framework to accelerate their commissioning of unlimited professional services from industry experts and extensive supply chain in every sector.

“All SCAPE Scotland frameworks deliver to gold standard, outperforming the value for money tests essential for today’s economy. The new utilities framework is specially shaped for the essential infrastructure across the UK, so we’re hugely proud to continue delivering on SCAPE Scotland’s commitments to unlock value and enhance communities. We have harnessed the broadest consortium of experts especially for this framework who will together help shape better national utilities infrastructure for a greener, safer, brighter future.”

Mac Alghita, Mobility Global Strategy Implementation Director at Arcadis, which delivers sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy solutions for natural and built assets, said: “Arcadis is thrilled to extend our relationship with SCAPE Scotland as we introduce a major new framework that perfectly aligns with our new global strategy which focusses on accelerating a planet positive future. Our commitment lies in delivering best in class, digitally enabled and sustainable solutions to our clients and their customers.

“We take immense pride in being appointed to the Utilities Consultancy Framework in Scotland and eagerly anticipate collaborating with partners AtkinsRéalis, Perfect Circle and other SCAPE partners. The opportunity to provide specialist services to new and existing client organisations in ports and aviation, energy and nuclear, water, communications, transport, and rail sectors is incredibly exciting.”

The SCAPE Scotland Utilities Consultancy framework will now enter the mobilisation phase, with clients anticipated to begin using the framework from the end of April 2024.