We are delighted to have been appointed to this important public sector framework and especially delighted to be awarded the top ranked, number 1 position following a competitive procedure assessing quality and cost.

The four year Architectural Services Framework (Lot 1) will be utilised by Carmarthenshire Council and neighbouring authorities of Ceredigion, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire and Swansea and has been established to provide an efficient, value for money procurement route to access high quality consultancy services to support the authorities in delivering a wide range of construction projects. The framework agreement allows services to be called off through direct award or further mini competition.

It is anticipated that the framework will cover the following types of project:

• • Primary schools
  • Secondary schools
  • Early years / nursery / day care facilities
  • Special educational needs and learning facilities
  • Sheltered housing and care homes
  • Housing developments and maintenance
  • Leisure facilities
  • Tourism facilities
  • Public sector buildings
  • Visitor centres
  • Storage buildings
  • Community facilities
  • Cultural and historical facilities
  • Commercial and industrial premises

Austin-Smith:Lord Executive Director and Framework Manager, Martin Roe commented,

“We are looking forward to collaborating with the participating authorities and delighted to have been recognised as the top ranking architectural practice. The framework objectives chime precisely with our own in seeking to maximise the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the area, ensuring a positive local impact. The framework also aims to encourage a focus on the circular and foundational economy, maximising sustainability and carbon reduction opportunities.

“We have a long and proud history of delivering projects in the region tracking back to the first PFI school in Wales at Pembroke Dock, the first BREEAM Excellent school in Wales in Llanelli and the delivery of significant parts of the Garden for Wales. Following sustainable principles, we are currently helping to deliver significant repurposing projects including Carmarthen Hwb, Swansea Community Hub and the grade I listed Old College, Aberystwyth.

“Participation in the framework will allow us to foster strong collaborative relationships, share knowledge and deliver significant community benefits.”