The GLA wants the best possible talent on the panel

The mayor of London has simplified selection rules for the first architecture and design framework to be procured since he was elected for his second term.

The Greater London Authority’s framework, set up together with Transport for London, has set no limit on turnover or public indemnity insurance as part of the PQQ process in a bid to encourage young and small practices to apply.

BD understands the mayor is trying to get the best possible talent on the panel, and has acknowledged that this is not always linked to size. There are up to 100 places available across 14 categories.

The news comes in the same week the RIBA launched its long-awaited report on public sector procurement, which calls for the use of more competitions.

But Alex Ely, partner at Mae, said frameworks are often a better way to win work. “I’m really grateful for frameworks,” he said. “It’s a good way for younger practices to get breaks that they otherwise wouldn’t have gotten.”

Ely added that Mae was selected for the mayor’s previous framework four years ago, when the practice did not have a track record of winning public sector work. As a result it was awarded work from the London Development Agency, as well as a commission for a series of sports facilities in Waltham Forest.

The new framework will run for three years, replacing the existing Architecture, Landscape and Urban Design Panel from 2008. TfL will also use it to replace its Urban Realm Design framework from 2005, after cancelling a replacement PQQ process earlier this year.

Up to £30 million worth of work is expected to be procured by the Greater London Authority through the new panel, including the ongoing work to transform the capital’s high streets.

As well as City Hall and TfL, London boroughs  and housing associations can also use it to procure architects.

Interested practices must apply by June 11 and invitations to tender will be issued in the summer. Contracts to successful bidders will be awarded by October 2012.

Postscript:

The PQQ for the framework can be found here.