Public construction deals in review

Oct 3 2012

A review of how Scotland's £2 billion-worth of public-sector construction contracts are awarded has been launched.

Infrastructure and Capital Investment Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said the work would "play a fundamental role in paving the way forward for our construction sector".

The review will be led by Robin Crawford, a non-executive director of professional services firm KPMG LLP, together with Ken Lewandowski, a former chairman of the Clydesdale Bank financial solution centres in Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Expected to be finished by next summer, the review will examine if public bodies provide value-for-money for taxpayers from construction projects. It will also consider how cutting-edge design and technology can be used along with energy-efficient techniques and more eco-friendly construction methods.

Ms Sturgeon said: "Scotland's public sector spends over £2 billion per annum on construction-related contracts. The review will examine how we can improve the impact of this spending on Scotland's economic growth and on the quality of Scotland's built environment."

The Scottish Government is "working flat out to maximise investment in infrastructure projects and to improve the way the procurement system operates", she said.

"This review will play a fundamental role in paving the way forward for our construction sector, helping to support jobs, to promote sustainable working practices and, most importantly, reaping maximum gains for Scotland's economy," Ms Sturgeon added.

Mr Crawford said: "I am determined that the review will both identify what needs to change and will put in place measures that ensure that the necessary improvements are delivered."

Mr Lewandowski said: "Having worked with construction industry representatives for some time and listened to their concerns, I know how important this review is. I know that we have an opportunity to make a real difference. I'm absolutely delighted to be invited to work with Robin on leading the review."