Operational Technology Commercial Framework
Framework Description
The Operational Technology Commercial Framework (OTCF) is a National Highways framework for the roadside and operational technology on England's strategic road network. It has five lots covering detector, informing and passive systems, operational systems services and consultancy support. It runs until 9 January 2028 with no extension, and applications for it are closed (it is not a Dynamic Purchasing System).
Context & Use Case
National Highways uses the OTCF to buy, maintain and support the technology that monitors traffic and informs drivers. Lots 1 to 3 cover goods, services and maintenance for detector systems, informing systems and passive systems. Lot 4 covers operational systems services and Lot 5 provides consultancy support for operational technology. The framework appears on Find a Tender under notice 054580-2025.
Scope of Services
Lot 1: Detector Systems (goods, services and maintenance) Lot 2: Informing Systems (goods, services and maintenance) Lot 3: Passive Systems (goods, services and maintenance) Lot 4: Operational Systems (services) Lot 5: Operational Technology Consultancy Support (services)
Lots
Lot 1 - Detector Systems (Goods, Services and Maintenance); Lot 2 - Informing Systems (Goods, Services and Maintenance); Lot 3 - Passive Systems (Goods, Services and Maintenance); Lot 4 - Operational Systems (Services); Lot 5 - Operational Technology Consultancy Support (Services)
Who Can Apply
Suits roadside technology manufacturers, systems integrators, maintenance contractors and OT consultancies. Applications for this framework are closed and it ends on 9 January 2028 with no extension, so non-appointed firms should prepare for its replacement or seek subcontract work with appointed suppliers.
Buyer Benefits
Roadside technology keeps the network safe and traffic moving, so National Highways needs reliable suppliers who can deliver and maintain it. Separate lots for different system types let it use specialists for each, while the consultancy lot provides independent expertise.
Next Steps
Suppliers should watch Find a Tender for National Highways notices about the successor to the OTCF, as it ends on 9 January 2028 with no extension. Map your products and services against the current lot structure so you can respond quickly, and in the meantime approach appointed suppliers about subcontract work.
How Athena Can Help
Multi-lot technology frameworks need a clear lot strategy. Athena's lot selection and registration advice helps you decide where to compete when National Highways replaces the OTCF, then manages the application and compliance check.
If you are already appointed, our call-off bid writing helps you win work within your lot with technical answers written to the criteria. Our transport sector bidding support also covers subcontract and direct technology tenders across the road sector, from bid/no-bid to submission.
