Episode Details

Construction Disrupted Episode 117 - Burnham, Baby, Burnham (27.05.26) in partnership with Adobe Acrobat Studio. Check them out and show them some love.

In this episode, we're covering the government’s ambitious £120bn construction framework renewal, the Royal Institute of British Architects’ (RIBA) call for city architects, and Manchester’s ongoing urban transformation under Under Mayor Andy Burnham’s leadership.

Government starts renewal race for £120bn mega framework

The UK Government has launched the tender for its largest-ever construction framework, valued at £120bn over eight years (2027–2035). The RM6320 framework will consolidate procurement for public sector building, infrastructure, defence, healthcare, nuclear, and overseas projects.

It’s divided into seven specialisms, including general construction, civil engineering, offsite solutions, healthcare (ProCure24), defence, international, and nuclear. Each category is split by project size and region, opening opportunities for a wide range of suppliers.

The framework aims to foster long-term supply chain relationships, innovation, and continuous improvement, supporting the Construction Playbook and Gold Standard guidance. Bidders have until June 2026 to submit, with awards expected in January 2027.

RIBA calls for return of city architects

RIBA’s new report calls for city architects to be embedded across England, starting with a three-year pilot in combined authorities like Greater Manchester. The report projects that a city architect could add £47.6 million in value over three years, with increased housebuilding, tax revenue, and economic growth.

RIBA argues that strong design leadership is essential to balance ambitious housing targets with quality, sustainability, and community wellbeing. The report highlights the historical impact of city architects and urges their expertise be central in planning and delivery, ensuring long-term social, economic, and environmental value.

Free PDF Spaces analysis of the RIBA Making the case for city architects report.

Manchester: Ambition and Model for Growth

Manchester is recognized as the UK’s fastest-growing city and a benchmark for successful devolution. Under Mayor Andy Burnham’s leadership, the city’s architectural value has risen, and it has become a model for urban regeneration and growth.

Manchester’s approach demonstrates how strategic vision, investment in design, and collaborative governance can drive transformation. The city’s achievements reinforce the importance of integrating architectural expertise and ambition in shaping the future of UK cities.

(full interview with Andy Burnham)

Bios

Ryan Jones - SLG Age