HE frameworks for concrete roads

Roads

Highways England is to appoint consultants and contractors to three frameworks for managing its concrete roads. 

HE’s Strategic Roads Network (SRN) includes about 600 miles of concrete pavement, termed ‘Legacy concrete’, which is either exposed concrete or concrete with a covering of no more than 50mm of asphalt. 

HE says the concrete has  exceeded its design life and anticipated traffic loads. 

It wants to repair the good concrete and maintain it in a safe condition until full reconstruction becomes needed. About £330m is earmarked for the work in roads period 2 (2020/21-2024/25). 

Three frameworks will be procured: 

• Design – two suppliers
• Lifecycle extension works – a multi-lot specialist contractor framework that will deliver repairs to maximise the life of the existing concrete pavement 
• Reconstruction works – two suppliers on a design and build arrangement with works to include demolishing existing pavement and replacement; overlaying of concrete pavements; and changes to or replacement of associated assets such as sub-surface drainage. 

The tender for the three frameworks is due to commence in June.