The new A+U Framework provides a diverse, pre-approved panel of built environment consultants, making it quicker and easier for organisations like councils and housing associations to commission high quality expertise for certain types of public sector projects in London.
The A+U Framework can be used by the Greater London Authority Group and other public sector commissioning authorities to appoint high-quality architectural, place making and urban planning design services for a range of built environment projects.
“The launch of the new Architecture and Urbanism Framework is an important step towards London’s recovery from the pandemic and the creation of a better, greener, more sustainable London for all.”
Jules Pipe, Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and Skills
Following successful completion of the procurement process, which saw 578 submissions from 273 suppliers, the final 96 places on the new Framework have now been awarded to 65 suppliers.
More than half (57 per cent) of places on the Framework have been awarded to ‘diverse-led’ enterprises, meaning at least half of their executive leadership identifies as female, Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic, disabled and/or as members of the LGBTQIA+ community
Of the 65 suppliers who hold places, 31% of those are female-led, 31% are either Black, Asian and/ or Minority Ethnic led, 5% LGBTQIA+ led, and 2% disabled-led.
All successful suppliers were assessed across a two-stage procurement process to ensure their suitability to meet the aims of the Framework. This includes:
Responding to the inequalities highlighted by the pandemic and supporting and shaping a sustainable and equitable recovery
Responding to the climate crisis and designing for net-zero
Supporting London’s economic recovery
The creation of social value and developing inclusive design approaches that champion participation, co-production and meaningful community engagement.
Grimshaw has been selected on two lots: Transport Infrastructure Interface: Over Station/Station Development and Transport Design Specialist Infrastructure.
“We look forward to seeing how this new cohort of suppliers apply their world-class expertise to support public sector clients deliver the low-carbon, sustainable and inclusive recovery that London needs.”
Jules Pipe, Deputy Mayor for Planning, Regeneration and Skills
23.02.2023