Client Support Framework

Tender description

East West Railway Company (EWR Co.) intends to procure a Client Support Framework (CSF) to provide scalable, client‑side professional services in support of the East West Rail programme. The detail provided is indicative information only and subject to governance and funding. The CSF will establish a multi‑lot framework agreement comprising three lots, each to be delivered by a single appointed supplier: Lot 1: Reporting and project controls (including programme controls, management information, cost and schedule reporting); Lot 2: Commercial management and contract administration (including procurement support, contract administration, cost management and commercial assurance); and Lot 3: Project management and delivery support (including coordination of workstreams, interface management and governance support). The framework will provide EWR Co. with flexible, on‑demand access to professional services capacity, enabling the organisation to scale resources in line with programme needs across development, consenting, delivery and entry into service phases. Services will be instructed through defined task orders, supporting responsive mobilisation and continuity of capability. The CSF suppliers will operate as an extension of the EWR client team, providing delivery support under EWR direction. The framework is intentionally designed to maintain a clear separation from the Integration, Technical, Operational, Assurance and Environmental (ITOAE) Partner to preserve assurance independence and avoid conflicts of interest. The framework is expected to have a duration of at least 8 years, but potentially up to 12 years and an estimated total value in the range of £230 million to £350 million (excluding VAT) based on 12 years. The procurement is expected to be undertaken using a competitive procedure under the Procurement Act 2023.