Gigabit Infrastructure Subsidy Programme - Cross-Regional Supplier Framework and Call-Off Contracts

BDUK intends to establish a Cross-Regional Single Supplier Framework, known colloquially as Type C, to award call-off contracts over the life of the Framework.

The Cross-Regional Framework is intended to appoint a single supplier to build gigabit-capable broadband infrastructure and whose role would be to target premises in respect of which (1) no or no appropriate market interest has been received through GIS market engagement steps for proposed Type A or Type B procurement areas; (2) BDUK has not awarded a contract following a procurement for Type A or Type B areas; (3) Type A or Type B contracts that cover these premises fail to be delivered by the supplier and are descoped or terminated; (4) Type C provides demonstrably better value for money or pace of build or coverage.

The Framework scope is expected to comprise up to c.500,000 premises, with a total estimated value of up to £800m. The average Call-Off Contract scope is anticipated to be between 50,000 and 150,000 premises. BDUK reserves the right to amend these figures to ensure that the framework can be used in accordance with criteria 1-4 above.

Call-Off contracts awarded under the Cross-Regional Framework will subsidise the design, build and operation of gigabit-capable supplier networks providing long-term, sustainable availability of wholesale gigabit broadband services in the hardest to reach parts of the UK.

BDUK issued a PIN on 18 August 2022 - ref 2022/S 000-023019 and on 5 January 2023 - ref 2023/S 000-000266 to discuss the Cross-Regional Framework.

Suppliers should consider the pre-qualification financial thresholds are reflective of the potential anticipated annual spend against the framework. They will also need to be able to demonstrate they can deliver gigabit-capable connectivity at pace and volume to support BDUK's 2025 and 2030 objectives.