Pavement Delivery Framework (PDF)
Framework Description
The Pavement Delivery Framework (PDF) is a £1.3bn National Highways framework for renewing and improving pavements across the Strategic Road Network, with a focus on reducing embodied carbon. It was awarded in 2022 to twelve suppliers and runs to 11 December 2027 with no extension. It is a single-lot framework, closed to new applications, and will be succeeded by Scheme Delivery Framework 2 (SDF2).
Context & Use Case
National Highways uses the PDF to deliver pavement renewals and improvements across motorways and major A roads. Appointed contractors carry out resurfacing, preparation and surface treatments under consistent commercial terms, with carbon reduction measures built into delivery. Twelve suppliers hold places, so work is spread across a defined group of large pavement contractors.
Scope of Services
Pavement renewal and resurfacing Pavement improvement works Preparation and surface treatment Works with embedded carbon reduction measures
Lots
Single lot
Who Can Apply
Suits major pavement contractors, but applications are closed until it ends on 11 December 2027. Smaller firms can pursue supply-chain work with the twelve appointed suppliers. Contractors seeking a direct route should target SDF2.
Buyer Benefits
National Highways gets fast access to a group of large pavement contractors under consistent terms, with contractual commitments to reduce carbon. This helps it deliver a large renewal programme at pace while working towards its net zero targets and comparing contractor performance on a like-for-like basis.
Next Steps
Firms not on the framework should approach the twelve appointed suppliers about supply-chain work, leading with their carbon reduction credentials and surfacing capability. For a direct route after 11 December 2027, follow National Highways' procurement of the successor, Scheme Delivery Framework 2 (SDF2), and prepare evidence of low-carbon pavement delivery now.
How Athena Can Help
For contractors, the main direct opportunity now is SDF2, which replaces this framework. Athena's major bid decision support can help you decide whether SDF2 is right for you and plan the bid, and our carbon-focused bid writing builds delivery and carbon reduction win themes.
For supply-chain firms, our framework strategy service helps you identify which frameworks and tier 1 contractors to target, and positions your credentials for pavement and surfacing work with the appointed suppliers.
