The UK Department for Transport’s (DfT) has appointed Mace to its £600 million STARThree Framework for rail and other transport projects as a provider of consultancy services.
The framework encompasses a broad spectrum of services, including support for procurement and contracting, management of projects and programs, provision of technical guidance and strategic advisory.
Its overarching objective is to facilitate the DfT's investment program and address emerging service needs.
In its third iteration, the framework is set to involve six 'prime' suppliers with comprehensive responsibilities, in addition to multiple specialized companies with narrower focuses.
Mace's inclusion in the framework earns it the position of 'prime' supplier, a designation that positions it as a leading contender for work across five distinct categories: offering advice on strategy, planning, and economic forecasting; providing guidance on operations and performance; delivering commercial advice; supplying expertise on infrastructure and assets; and furnishing advice on project and program management.
The group's involvement in the framework will also expand its existing ties within the UK's transport sector beyond Network Rail and National Highways.
Alongside the opportunity to build on our experience with the likes of Network Rail, National Highways, HS2 and Abellio, we’re looking forward to forging new relationships and showcasing the full scope of our consultancy capabilities
In inviting participants to bid for five categories as part of the first tranche of the public procurement process (or 'Lot 1'), the DfT will emphasise social value and decarbonisation.
Mace recently unveiled plans to reduce carbon generation from its portfolio of building and infrastructure projects around the world by 10 million metric tonnes before 2026.
Sean Gray, Director for Transportation at Mace Consult, shared his thoughts on the appointment with FM Magazine, stating: "Securing this new appointment with DfT is a reflection of the growth and success we’ve seen in our UK transportation business over the past few years; it’s further evidence that Mace is established as major multi-modal player in the sector.
“Alongside the opportunity to build on our experience with the likes of Network Rail, National Highways, HS2 and Abellio, we’re looking forward to forging new relationships and showcasing the full scope of our consultancy capabilities, drawing on our delivery expertise to bring new ideas and innovations – such as modern methods of construction – that will help the nation transform its transport infrastructure."
