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Why Modern Methods of Construction are gaining traction in the UK.
A new procurement route aimed at accelerating the uptake of modular construction across the UK public sector has been introduced by YPO, with the launch of its Modular Buildings and Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) framework.
YPO is a publicly owned procurement organisation, backed by 13 local authorities, that provides frameworks and purchasing solutions to schools, councils, emergency services and other public sector bodies. Its role is to aggregate demand and simplify access to compliant suppliers, enabling organisations to procure goods and services more efficiently.
Streamlining access to modular construction
The newly launched framework is designed to provide a compliant, pre-approved route to market for modular building solutions across sectors including education, healthcare, housing and justice. It brings together 29 suppliers across 15 lots, covering both permanent and temporary applications, with options for purchase or hire.
The lot structure is organised broadly by sector and application, including education buildings, healthcare facilities, housing and custodial suites, alongside more specialised categories such as kitchens, catering systems and changing places buildings. A clear split between purchase and hire options reflects differing estate strategies, from short-term capacity requirements through to permanent infrastructure delivery. Bespoke building categories are also included, acknowledging that not all projects can be delivered through fully standardised solutions.
By reducing the need for full tender processes, the framework simplifies procurement and shortens delivery timeframes. Contracting authorities can either directly award work or run a competitive process within the framework, in line with the UK’s Procurement Act 2023.
Responding to infrastructure and delivery pressures
The framework has been introduced against a backdrop of increasing demand for public infrastructure, driven by population growth, ageing assets and evolving service requirements. Traditional construction methods continue to face constraints around labour availability, cost escalation and delivery timelines.
Modular construction is positioned within this context as a means of addressing these pressures. Offsite manufacturing enables parallel site and factory activities, reducing overall build time and limiting disruption to operational environments such as schools and hospitals.
Sustainability also forms part of the framework’s rationale. Modular approaches typically generate less material waste and can support lower embodied carbon outcomes. The ability to relocate or reconfigure buildings extends asset life, which is increasingly relevant for public sector estates managing changing demand profiles.
All appointed suppliers meet the Common Assessment Standard, providing a consistent baseline for safety, quality and compliance. The framework runs from March 2026 to March 2030, offering national coverage and a defined procurement pathway for organisations seeking to adopt Modular Buildings and Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) at scale.
Find the YPO MMC framework HERE
