CF25 framework

The DfE Construction Framework 2025: £15.4bn envelope, 23 contractors, 10 lots, 2 value bands. Live 5 January 2026, replacing CF21.

Structure

The framework is split into two value bands. The high-value band (£12m+) carries both general construction and MMC / off-site lots. The low-value band (£4.4-12m) is split into eight regional lots. Each contractor appointment is multi-lot; Morgan Sindall holds seven lots, Bowmer + Kirkland holds five[CF25].

Direct award vs mini-competition

Routes available are direct award (for repeat-design schemes and time-critical works under Procurement Act 2023 rules[PA23]) and mini-competition (where lot has 2+ ranked contractors). Mini-competition is the default for bespoke projects; direct award sits with the DfE allocation team for SRP standard schemes.

What CF25 replaces

CF25 replaces CF21 (which ran from 2021 to 2025). The chief differences are higher framework value, broader scope beyond education, and full PA23 compliance from day one.

See SRP for how schemes flow through CF25 lots, or Procurement Act 2023 for the legal basis.