Link Group framework 2026-30
Competition Brief
Link Group has launched a £50 million framework for architectural services covering new-build housing and regeneration projects across Scotland. The organization will select up to ten architectural practices for a four-year framework which will distribute projects through direct award and mini-competition methods.
The framework primarily concerns new-build housing but may also include rehabilitation of existing properties, extensions, office accommodation, commercial property, adaptations, and planned maintenance. The schemes will include housing units which range from 5 units to 500 units for both mainstream and specialist housing in affordable, private rented, and market sale tenures.
Intent
The framework seeks to obtain architectural services which can deliver housing projects of different scales and complexities. The architects must focus on designing affordable housing projects which will serve the Central Belt, Argyll and Bute, and the Highlands regions.
Purpose
The purpose is to streamline procurement for housing development and related projects under a single structured agreement, ensuring consistency in quality, resourcing, and contractual management. The associated housing partners will also gain access to the framework.
Requirements
- Applicants must be RIBA or RIAS-registered practices.
- Architects must be registered with the ARB or equivalent authority.
- Demonstrated experience in affordable housing projects between 5 and 500 units.
- Professional indemnity insurance: £10 million.
- Employer’s liability insurance: £5 million.
- Public liability insurance: £10 million.
- Evaluation weighting: 70 per cent quality, 30 per cent price.
- Shortlisting: Maximum 15 bidders invited to ITT stage.
Jury
Link Group representatives will conduct the evaluation process. The assessment will evaluate the organization based on three criteria which include their staffing needs and their ability to understand essential requirements and their capacity to handle contract administration work and their commitment to equitable workplace procedures. The organization has chosen not to disclose the names of its evaluators.
Fees
| Stage | Fee |
|---|---|
| Application | Free |
Rewards
| Contract | Value |
|---|---|
| Four-Year Architectural Services Framework | £50 million total framework value |
Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| First Round Deadline | Midday, 26 March 2026 |
| Appointments Announced | Summer 2026 (anticipated) |
✦ ArchUp Competition Review
The Link Group operates the Framework Agreement for the Provision of Architectural Services for New Build Housing as a public procurement procedure instead of a design competition. The framework establishes eligibility requirements and assessment criteria but assessment result distribution remains hidden because evaluators’ identities stay confidential. The organization requires established architectural practices which hold RIBA or RIAS accreditation and maintain extensive insurance coverage to complete the selection process. The framework reaches a significant total value of £50 million but the framework allows multiple non-exclusive appointments which depend on specific project distribution terms. The actual advantage of this system exists in its capacity to generate future work which benefits established companies more than it assists new businesses.
Conclusion
The Link Group framework represents a significant public-sector procurement opportunity within the Scottish housing sector. Its scale and insurance thresholds indicate a preference for established practices with substantial capacity and financial backing. The framework provides access to various projects however its entry requirements which include high insurance standards and registration restrictions will limit participation to larger and mid-sized companies. The quality-weighted evaluation emphasizes demonstrated expertise and operational strength while disregarding cost considerations.
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