Scope
Reference
prj_14483
Description
The Authority is seeking to establish a multi-supplier Open Framework for Prison Operator Services (POSF2). Please note that the length of the Open Framework is yet to be determined as the Authority is still progressing through governance, however, it is anticipated it will be for a minimum of 8-years and will reopen at least twice throughout its maximum term.
The Authority has tendered the operation of prisons to the private sector since the early 1990s and has long advocated a mixed approach to prison operation that includes public, voluntary and private sector involvement. The first generation of the Prison Operator Services Framework (POSF1) was established in July 2019 and expired in July 2025.
An indicative timetable for the procurement is outlined below. Please note these dates may be subject to change:
• Publication of Tender Notice and Procurement Documentation – 23/02/2026
• Deadline for Submission of PSQ and COP Responses – 13/03/2026
• Authority issue PSQ and COP Notification Letters – 02/04/2026
• Bidder Engagement and Dialogue – 20/04/2026 to 19/06/2026
• Publication of ISFT Documentation – 29/06/2026
• Deadline for Submission of Tender Responses – 24/07/2026
• Framework Award – 08/03/2027
This notice is for information only and the Authority reserves the right to not proceed to tender. Additionally, the Authority reserves the right to discontinue the tender process at any stage and not to award the Framework.
The information contained in this notice, including information relating to the nature and scope of the requirements, the estimated value, the service classification of this requirement or the list of CPV codes, is only indicative of current thinking and is neither exhaustive nor binding, and the Authority reserves the right at its absolute discretion to amend it at the time of issue or any further notices or at any other time. The publication of this notice in no way obliges the Authority to commence any competitive tender process. Any contracts are subject to the relevant legal and Cabinet Office controls and policies.
Commercial tool
Establishes an open framework
Total value (estimated)
- £9,200,000,000 excluding VAT
- £9,200,000,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 8 March 2027 to 7 March 2035
- 8 years
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 75231230 - Prison services
- 75231210 - Imprisonment services
- 75240000 - Public security, law and order services
Framework
Open framework scheme end date (estimated)
7 March 2035
Maximum number of suppliers
Unlimited
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
23 February 2026
Enquiry deadline
3 March 2026, 5:00pm
Submission type
Requests to participate
Deadline for requests to participate
13 March 2026, 12:00pm
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
8 March 2027
Procedure
Procedure type
Competitive flexible procedure
Special regime
Light touch
Contracting authority
Ministry of Justice
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PDNN-2773-HVYN
102 Petty France
London
SW1H 9AJ
United Kingdom
Email: OpCompCommercial@justice.gov.uk
Website: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ministry-of-justice/about/procurement
Region: UKI32 - Westminster
Organisation type: Public authority - central government