Much-needed investment in healthcare infrastructure looks set to continue apace with news, this week, of the launch of the fourth iteration of the ProCure construction framework.

ProCure23 (P23) covers the design and construction of NHS capital projects and has an expected cumulative spend of £9billion during its four-year lifespan.

It will begin next summer and follows on from the earlier P21, P22, and P22+ frameworks, which delivered more than £10billion worth of NHS infrastructure projects, enabling NHS clients to quickly access experienced and proficient partners to support excellence in all aspects of NHS capital project delivery, including business case development/approval, sustainability, design, construction, disruption mitigation, benefit realisation, and optimised occupation.

And, in light of developments over the past year, including the announcement of the New Hospital Programme, P23 has been updated to better reflect the changing needs of the NHS and acknowledge other infrastructure and capital projects ongoing within the NHS.

There will be three lots available as part of P23, covering different values ranging from under £20m to over £70m. 

For the first time as part of the ProCure structure, the lower-value lot (<£20m) will be split into the seven NHS England and NHS Improvement geographical regions. 

This is intended to open the framework to suitable regional contractors, enhance capacity, and increase local backing for projects.

P23 will also provide more flexibility for contractors and bring the latest best practice in construction methods, modern methods of construction, and digital infrastructure to the NHS, with a focus on delivering greener facilities, reducing carbon emissions throughout the process, and promoting social value.