CHIC is delighted to be among the first organisations to be verified under Constructing Excellence’s prestigious ‘Gold Standard Verification Scheme.’ This certification underscores our commitment to implementing best practices in construction procurement and management, aligning closely with government endorsed initiatives to drive value, reduce risks and support net zero goals across public sector development and regeneration projects.
CHIC is dedicated to supporting our members by delivering cost effective and efficient procurement solutions. Through the Newbuild Framework, CHIC facilitates streamlined access to services that enhance project value and help members meet construction and sustainability objectives. The framework offers a comprehensive solution designed to support diverse development projects, from small infill sites and garage redevelopments to extensive estate regeneration, with options for newbuilds, refurbishments, retrofits and cross-subsidy housing. The framework also includes manufacturers of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) solutions including fully modular, frame and panel and turnkey options, addressing specific needs identified through member consultation.
As detailed in our annual report, our frameworks have supported significant efficiencies and cost savings for the public sector while promoting high quality, sustainable construction. The Newbuild Framework has now been recognised under the Constructing Excellence Gold Standard Verification Scheme, an industry benchmark designed to improve framework procurement, management and collaborative contracting standards. This scheme, updated in line with the 2022 “Construction Playbook,” is a critical resource for public sector clients looking to implement best practice in construction procurement.
Professor David Mosey CBE’s Independent Review of Public Sector Construction Frameworks, commissioned by the Cabinet Office, served as the foundation for Constructing the Gold Standard. The review resulted in 24 key recommendations aimed at enabling clients and industry partners to evaluate and enhance their construction frameworks. The Gold Standard encourages procurement strategies that prioritise collaboration, sustainability and safety, while reducing costs and ensuring supply chain resilience.
The verification scheme, launched in partnership with King’s College London, provides a robust framework for assessing quality in construction frameworks. CHIC’s Newbuild Framework, which underwent thorough evaluation as part of this pilot programme, now stands as a Gold Standard model. This accreditation places CHIC alongside a select group of pioneering framework providers.
John Fisher, Chief Executive of CHIC, commented. “Achieving the Gold Standard is a significant milestone for CHIC. Our Newbuild Framework not only addresses our members immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for sustainable growth in the housing sector. This accreditation reaffirms our dedication to delivering quality, innovation and value through collaborative and sustainable frameworks that benefit the communities we serve.”
Katie Saunders, Partner at Trowers & Hamlins, supported CHIC in highlighting the robust processes to ensure they aligned with the recommendations. “In my review of the CHIC Newbuild Framework, I was impressed by the robust processes CHIC have in place to support their members to deliver on all 24 of the Constructing the Gold Standard Recommendations. Their commitment to early contractor and supply chain engagement on development projects and the focus they place on including SMEs was clearly demonstrated through their framework documents and market engagement activity and use of digital solutions. It was a pleasure working with the CHIC team on the review and I am delighted that they have secured Gold Standard accreditation”.
