PRO005185-Works-Framework-Rainwater Solutions
A practical guide to understanding what United Utilities really wants and how to build a winning response.
The big picture is about sustainable drainage
When you look at this framework, don't just see rainwater systems.
Think about United Utilities' wider Rainwater Management Strategy.
They prioritise capturing and managing rainwater as close to its source as possible.
This isn't just about pipes and drains.
It's about sustainability.
The contract covers both Design & Build and Build Only projects, offering a chance to showcase innovation in sustainable drainage solutions across North West England.
Remember what a framework means
This is a framework — not a direct contract for work.
You're competing to be on a list of five partners.
The focus is on proving your capacity and capability.
Winning a place means you're in the running for future call-offs, not that you're guaranteed projects or revenue.
Pay attention to what they say
United Utilities are clear about their priorities.
Sustainable drainage principles are at the forefront.
They've mentioned capturing, reusing and managing rainwater right where it falls.
I'd take this as a clear sign to emphasise your expertise in these areas.
Don't just think about the work
Consider the people you're working with.
United Utilities needs partners who can integrate seamlessly into their operations.
They want to understand how you'll manage projects and ensure smooth collaboration.
Make it easy for them to see how you fit into their strategy.
Show evidence of your capability
Evidence always beats promises.
If I were in your shoes, I'd be gathering examples of past projects that demonstrate:
- Successful implementation of sustainable drainage solutions
- Effective design and build processes
- Strong project management and delivery on tight timelines
- Collaborative working with water utilities or similar clients
- Innovative approaches to rainwater management
Think long-term, not just project-based
The term might be 12 to 18 months initially, but the insights gained here will inform future procurement.
Consider how your work on this framework will position you for the AMP8 and AMP9 programme.
How will you maintain quality and performance over time?
The importance of flexibility
This framework will support both Design & Build and Build Only commissions.
Your ability to adapt to different procurement delivery routes will be crucial.
Showcase your flexibility in managing a variety of project complexities and design maturities.
Manage consistency over the framework term
One thing I'd keep reminding myself is that consistency is key.
United Utilities will be looking for reliability over the term of the framework.
How will you ensure consistent quality, even when projects vary in scope and complexity?
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus solely on technical solutions without addressing sustainability principles
- Overlook the importance of collaboration with United Utilities
- Fail to provide concrete evidence of past relevant projects
- Ignore the need for flexibility in delivery approaches
- Underestimate the importance of maintaining standards over time
- Provide generic responses that don't align with United Utilities' strategy
- Assume that winning a place guarantees work
- Overpromise without showing how commitments will be met
My Final Thoughts
United Utilities is looking for partners that align with their vision of sustainable rainwater management.
This framework is about more than just delivering projects. It's about integrating into their strategy and proving your long-term value.
With a value of £40,000,000 and a duration up to May 2028, this opportunity is significant.
Quality and consistency will be key, even though the initial term is relatively short.
That weighting means your written submission must clearly demonstrate how you'll deliver sustainable solutions and collaborate effectively.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
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Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.