Contractors unhappy with ProCure 21 work

ProCure 21 framework contractors are unhappy at the amount and size of the work coming out of the recently launched national programme, CJ learnt this week. Contractors are predicting that some ProCure 21 framework contractors could jump ship by the summer.

One Principal Supply Chain Partner (PSCP) told CJ: "We have to pay £40,000 a quarter for the privilege of being a PSCP. NHS Estates made sure the bill was there on all our desks when we got back after Christmas, but it is not so fast at delivering the work. It is not coming through fast enough. After the first flush of decent-sized contracts, it has dwindled to small stuff. With these sorts of costs, people will start wondering if it is worth the trouble."

Another contractor commented: "We were disappointed to see that Kettering has chosen not to go the ProCure 21 route with its diagnostic and treatment centre (DTC), which it will let traditionally. It reminds us that we are not guaranteed work under ProCure 21. What is coming through is coming through too slowly, and there are not enough large projects. I think some PSCPs will jump ship by the summer if it continues like this."

Amid the new year gloom some PSCPs have been able to celebrate successful bids for ProCure 21 work. Laing has won three contracts for a £20m DTC at Newham, a £7m haematology unit at Nottingham and a £20m mental health unit at Newcastle.

Two ProCure 21 projects have been awarded to HBG so far. The company will build a £30m unit at Basildon Hospital and a £16m  new ward at Christies Hospital in Manchester.

Taylor Woodrow has also tasted success, having won a £10m refurbishment at Crawley Hospital and a £7m extension at Horsham Hospital. Meanwhile, Carillion is celebrating its first ProCure 21 contract to build a £15m secure mental health unit at Rampton Hospital.

Medicinq is also toasting a successful bid, having won a £2m contract to upgrade fire systems and provide a radiology unit at Stevenage.