London’s public sector bodies will now find it quicker and easier to access specialist design, architecture and urban planning expertise following the launch of a new Architecture and Urbanisation (A+U) Framework by City Hall.
The four-year framework has been designed to help London boroughs, housing associations and other public sector organisations procure high-quality professional services for housing, regeneration, infrastructure and public realm projects. At the same time, it aims to increase opportunities for smaller firms and under-represented groups operating within the built environment sector.
Architectural practices, urban design studios, landscape architects and specialist consultants will be able to bid for commissions covering a broad spectrum of projects, including housing developments, transport infrastructure, civic buildings, workplace schemes, regeneration initiatives and public spaces.
The move comes as demand for design and urbanisation expertise continues to grow across the capital, driven by ambitious housing targets, major regeneration programmes and significant investment in affordable housing.
The A+U Framework has already demonstrated its ability to create commercial opportunities for smaller practices. Between March 2023 and March 2026, it facilitated the procurement of more than £15 million worth of services.
Among the firms benefiting from the framework was East Architecture Landscape and Urban Design, which secured contracts valued at almost £500,000 to support the Oxford Street pedestrianisation programme. Meanwhile, Archio won commissions worth £1.1 million across a range of small-site development projects.
Supporting the Mayor’s Good Growth by Design programme, the refreshed framework promotes sustainable, inclusive and design-led development while embedding social value and diversity within procurement processes.
The latest version has been redesigned following extensive engagement with stakeholders across the sector. Changes introduced include a simpler procurement process, faster commissioning times, enhanced sustainability requirements and additional guidance for smaller organisations seeking public sector opportunities.
The framework also introduces updated assessment criteria and support measures aimed at widening participation and improving representation throughout the built environment industry. Diversity, inclusion and environmental sustainability are now embedded across all stages of the programme.
The launch comes at a time when the housebuilding sector continues to face significant challenges, including delays linked to building safety approvals, rising construction costs, skills shortages, inflationary pressures and higher borrowing costs.
Despite these obstacles, the A+U Framework is intended to provide public sector organisations with a streamlined route to secure high-quality design and consultancy services needed to accelerate project delivery.
Housing remains a key priority for the Mayor of London, with national planning policy placing renewed emphasis on increasing housing supply. The London Plan identifies a requirement for 558,000 new homes between 2027 and 2036, creating substantial demand for architectural, planning and urban design expertise.
Further opportunities are expected through the Government’s New Towns Programme and the Greater London Authority’s affordable housing pipeline. The London Social and Affordable Homes Programme 2026-36 will provide £11.7 billion to support affordable housing delivery across the capital.
Jules Pipe, Deputy Mayor for Planning and Regeneration, said:
“London’s success depends on great design, inclusive growth and the talent of our built environment sector.
“This new Architecture and Urbanisation Framework will make it easier for public bodies to access the expertise they need to deliver high-quality homes, public spaces, infrastructure and regeneration projects across the city.
“We are particularly proud to be creating more opportunities for small, emerging and diverse-led practices.
“I would encourage all public bodies to engage with the new Framework, ensuring that the widest possible range of talent can help shape London’s future, as we build a fairer, greener and more prosperous city for everyone.”
Image credit: iStock
