Grounds Maintenance Services (2025)
Framework Description
Grounds Maintenance Services (2025) is an ESPO framework (reference 245_25) for grounds and tree work on public sector sites. Its initial term runs from 28 January 2025 to 31 December 2026, with an option to extend to 31 December 2028. Lot 1 covers grounds maintenance and Lot 2 arboriculture. It was procured under the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and is closed to new applications.
Context & Use Case
Schools, academies, councils and other public bodies use it for grass, hedge and shrub maintenance, sports pitch upkeep and snow clearance, plus tree surveys and tree surgery under Lot 2. Buyers may award directly or hold a further competition. Many school contracts cover a full year of seasonal work, so buyers often compete them before the growing season.
Scope of Services
Lot 1: Grounds Maintenance Services Lot 2: Arboriculture Services Grass, hedge and shrub maintenance Sports pitch upkeep Snow clearance
Lots
Lot 1 Grounds Maintenance Services; Lot 2 Arboriculture Services
Who Can Apply
Suits grounds maintenance contractors, landscapers and arboricultural firms. Applications for this framework are closed, so contractors not appointed cannot join until ESPO re-tenders it. That could be soon, as the initial term ends on 31 December 2026, or by 31 December 2028 if extended.
Buyer Benefits
Buyers can appoint grounds and tree contractors quickly with standard terms, which matters for schools that need reliable seasonal cover. A separate arboriculture lot reaches qualified tree specialists. Buyers value consistent quality, safe working around pupils, clear schedules and responsive cover for storms or snow.
Next Steps
Check the 245_25 page on ESPO's website to see whether the extension to 31 December 2028 is being used. Appointed contractors should prepare for competitions ahead of the spring season. Others should prepare for the re-tender with school or council grounds case studies, staff qualifications and equipment lists.
How Athena Can Help
With the initial term of 245_25 ending on 31 December 2026, Athena would help you prepare for both possibilities. If you are appointed, our competition bid support can win further competitions with clear seasonal schedules and pricing. If you are not, our re-tender planning service can plan for the re-tender. When ESPO re-tenders, Athena's bidding consultants cover the full bid, from bid/no-bid to compliance, including social value commitments such as local employment.
