Department for Communities Strategic Planning Services Framework 2026
The Department for Communities is procuring a Strategic Planning Services Framework 2026. The Framework Contract is for the provision of one consultancy services team, comprising a Consultant and its supply chain, collectively referred to as an Integrated Consultant Team (ICT), to provide construction related strategic planning, financial, legal, architecture and conservation architecture advice in respect of regeneration matters within the remit of the Department for Communities. The Integrated Consultant Team will be expected to provide high level and strategic advice, when required, in relation to all aspects of urban and community regeneration, local government and housing regulation, planning and transport, master planning, urban design, community asset transfer, retail development, property and valuations, evaluation of proposals, legal and financial advice, ad hoc planning and urban design advisory services, advice on procurement strategies and strategic level architectural and conservation architecture services.
The Framework will be delivered using an NEC4 Framework Contract. Work Orders and Time Charge Orders under the Framework Contract will be executed using NEC4 Professional Services Short Contracts (PSSC) and will be ‘called off’ on an ad hoc basis as required by the Client. The Framework is not a guarantee of future workload.
DESCRIPTION OF RISKS TO CONTRACT PERFORMANCE
Due to the strategic, advisory and project-specific nature of the services to be procured under the Framework Contract, the Contracting Authority recognises that requirements may evolve during the term of the Framework. The scope, nature and volume of commissions may be influenced by changes in Government policy, legislative requirements, funding availability, regeneration priorities and emerging project requirements.
Accordingly, the Contracting Authority reserves the right to utilise the provisions of the Procurement Act 2023 relating to contract modifications where the applicable statutory conditions are satisfied. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to:
• unforeseeable circumstances affecting the delivery of services;
• urgent requirements arising from Government priorities, statutory obligations or emerging business needs; and
• the requirement for additional services that are connected to or complementary to the original scope of the Framework Contract.
In addition, the Authority may require support in relation to new or expanded programmes, initiatives or funding streams that arise during the Framework period. Such requirements may include, but are not limited to:
a. strategic planning and regeneration studies;
b. masterplanning, urban design and place-making commissions;
c. economic, financial and viability assessments;
d. stakeholder and community engagement services;
e. specialist legal, planning, transport or property advice; and
f. other professional consultancy services falling within the scope of the Framework Contract.
Such services may be commissioned through Work Orders or Time Charge Orders issued under the Framework Contract. There is no guarantee as to the volume, value or timing of any commissions, and requirements will be dependent upon the Authority's operational priorities, project approvals and the availability of funding.
Further information regarding the scope of services, ordering mechanisms and the circumstances in which modifications may be made in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023 is contained within the procurement and tender documentation.
The Department for Communities (DfC) in conjunction with Newry Mourne & Down District Council (NMDDC) are seeking a development proposal for this site known as “Irish Street Development Scheme". The site is located within Downpatrick Town Centre, as defined within the Ards and North Down Area Plan and sits adjacent to the Primary Retail Core. The east end of the site falls within Downpatrick Centre Conservation Area, and the complete site lies within an area of Significant Archaeological Potential.
The overall objective of this Procurement is to attract high quality development proposals that meet both DfC & NMDDC joint objectives for a high quality multi use scheme that is commercially led and provides sustainable urban regeneration. The Authority recognises the contribution that Developers’ can make to urban regeneration in terms of innovative high-quality design, professional expertise and financing.
It is anticipated the appointed Developer will design, build, own and operate this Redevelopment Scheme.
The successful developer will enter into a Development Agreement under Licence with DfC to deliver this project. This Agreement will set out the contractual framework governing the development, including obligations, conditions, and procedural requirements.
The Developer will be responsible for all design work required to secure full planning permission and satisfy requirements of all other statutory bodies. The Developer will be responsible for all aspects of the construction of the works, in full compliance with the Development Scope, all relevant statutory regulations, and relevant legislation.
