A government backed, five-year funding cycle provides confidence and visibility of a long-term programme of work. Funding certainty means National Highways is able to work closely with suppliers to innovate and develop new approaches to create added value. Longer term funding is expected to enable more investment in developing capability and capacity to deliver future programmes.
They engage regularly with their suppliers to:
- consult on new initiatives
- explore market opportunities
- share expertise and network
- develop capacity and capability across the infrastructure sector.
They follow fair and prompt payment initiatives that incorporate the use of Project Bank Accounts (PBA). Suppliers working on projects that use PBAs are assured prompt payment as they do not have to wait for higher tier contractors to process their payment; instead they receive it directly through a ring-fenced bank account specific to the project they are working on.
At National Highways we are committed to working with highways suppliers to create supplier development approaches that drive better alignment, leadership, and collaboration. Our aim is to deliver better practices and performance across the whole enterprise of National Highways and highways suppliers.
Our Supplier Development System is part of a broader suite of tools and collaborative approaches such as the Engagement Council, Roads Academy, and strategic partnership with the Supply Chain Sustainability School. These provide consistent ways of priming and driving the transformation of the highways sector needed to meet current and future challenges including safety performance, transforming our relationships with customers, achieving net zero carbon, and delivering social value.
There is also some useful information available on the Becoming a supplier webpage, including up coming events and innovation competitions.
Part 4: Procurement at National Highways
If you would like further information, or to feedback on this guide, please e-mail scd@nationalhighways.co.uk