Framework Representative
Ian Hall
About North West Construction Hub (NWCH)
The North West Construction Hub (NWCH) is a public-sector framework provider serving the North West of England. They foster strong partnerships between clients contractors and consultants, offering an efficient, two-stage tendering process that delivers excellent value and enhanced social impact. Through their collaborative approach, they ensure that projects not only meet high standards but also contribute to the well-being of local communities.
What do clients love about NWCH?
Clients love NWCH for many reasons, but key among them is their personal, hands-on approach. They’re a small, friendly team that excels in providing a fully compliant route to market, along with end-to-end project support—from concept to delivery. Each project is given individual attention, with their Business Development Manager, Mike Tyler, offering honest and transparent procurement advice exploring all available routes to market. A unique attribute of the North West Construction Hub is their independent board made up of clients from across the region, who provide them with governance and expertise. Their credibility, reliability, and tailored service have made NWCH the framework of choice for public-sector bodies across the region.
What are NWCH’s most innovative public sector build projects and what makes them special?
The North West Construction Hub are proud of every project they undertake, from SEN schools to fire stations and crematoriums, as they all play a vital role in delivering essential public services to communities across the North West. However, some projects stand out for their innovation and uniqueness. For example, Shakespeare North in Knowsley features a handcrafted timber frame inspired by the Globe Theatre in London. Another exciting project is Eden Project Morecambe, a high-profile landmark scheme that will be a sister project to the famous Eden Project in Cornwall. Each project is special to them because it embodies the region’s rich cultural and social heritage.
What makes NWCH proud to be a part of the North West?
Everything! From the rugged mountains of the Lake District to the rolling hills of the Peaks, the North West is a region of stunning natural beauty. But it’s not just the landscape—world-class cities like Liverpool and Manchester have made an enduring mark on global popular culture, from The Beatles to the ‘Madchester’ scene of the 90s, and they are home to some of the world’s most famous football clubs. The region’s universities are leaders in cutting-edge research and technology. Most of all, it’s the people—resilient, passionate, and community-driven—that make the North West so special.
What does NWCH do to support your local communities?
The NWCH collaborate extensively with the supply-chain to ensure that social value deliverables are targeted to community needs on each project. They are also very proud of their additional social value initiatives, delivered through the framework by true collaboration between their framework partners to achieve exceptional outcomes. For example, NWCH partnered with Styal Prison in Cheshire to teach prisoners construction skills, helping them secure employment after release. They are also working with the Royal Foundation to provide targeted support to teenagers in care who are at risk of youth violence, giving them skills and employment opportunities in the construction industry. These projects are just a snapshot of how they use construction as a force for positive change in the community.
How did NWCH first become involved with the NACF?
The North West Construction Hub has been actively involved with the National Association of Construction Frameworks (NACF) since it’s inception. Their involvement stems from their commitment to collaboration and sharing best practices within the public sector.
Why is NACF important in the construction industry?
The NACF is a national network of public-sector frameworks that continually push for industry best practices. By sharing knowledge and collaborating across regions, NACF frameworks set the standard for ethical, efficient, and innovative construction. Membership in the NACF is not open to just any framework; it represents a mark of trust and quality, ensuring clients can confidently select frameworks that align with their values.
What would be the NWCH’s best piece of advice for a public sector organisation considering using a framework?
Understand the motivations behind the framework you choose. Not-for-profit, public-sector frameworks like the North West Construction Hub are focused on delivering value for communities, not profits. As highlighted in ‘Constructing the Gold Standard,’ thousands of frameworks have emerged across the UK, some driven more by profit than by public good. Choose a framework that prioritises quality, social value, and transparency to ensure long-term success for your project.
