Public Sector Contracts

We understand the unique nature of the services and supplies being procured by the public sector, and as a consequence, the nuances and particularities of terms and conditions of contract. Our experience spans across a wide range of sectors, including social care, leisure, technology, waste, energy and environment, marine, facilities and asset management, housing and regeneration.

We act for both public and private sector bodies in reviewing, drafting and negotiating contracts. Every contract is unique, and we will work closely with you to ensure that the terms and conditions are suitable for your project. We can create bespoke agreements, or we can adapt your standard terms and conditions to best meet your requirements.

When acting for our public sector clients, we draft contracts that:

• meet our clients’ public policy objectives;
• reflect our clients’ appetite to risk;
• enable our clients’ to meet their statutory obligations; and
• are palatable to the market and as such, will attract competitive offers and achieve best value. Where required, we collaborate with other members of the firm from real estate, employment, banking, risk and regulation and data protection to help deliver a complete and seamless service.

Some of the types of contract we advise on include:

• Construction Contracts and Development Agreements: Our public sector team includes a number of construction specialists who are familiar with all standard forms of construction contract and who also advise on development agreements in collaboration with our real estate team.
• Framework Agreements: Not only do we draft framework agreements and underlying call-off contracts, but we can advise on the suitability of the terms and conditions of contract of any existing framework agreement which you are considering calling-off under. We are familiar with many of the popular public sector frameworks available, including those set up by the Crown Commercial Service.
• Concession Contracts: Another one of our specialisms is advising on concession agreements. Recent experience has included drafting concessions in relation to the operation of leisure centres, docks, events and car parking.
• Contractual Joint Ventures: For more complex projects which have an emphasis on partnering and collaboration, you may be considering a contractual joint venture. Our team can ensure appropriate terms and conditions are incorporated.
• Ancillary Documentation: We can produce all forms of ancillary documentation, including parent company guarantees, bonds, direct agreements and collateral warranties.

In addition to developing contractual documentation, we also facilitate the execution and completion of agreements. This includes reviewing governance arrangements, ensuring all conditions precedent are met, and facilitating signage either in hard copy or via DocuSign.