Peel Ports Group, the UK's second-largest port operator, has established a new construction framework worth up to £750 million, appointing 18 contractors to deliver projects across its UK and Ireland operations.

The framework, structured into three lots, will support infrastructure improvements and new developments over a period of up to eight years. Lot 1 covers General Construction, Lot 2 focuses on Marine Construction, and Lot 3 is designated for Major Projects at a national level.

The appointed contractors will work across Peel Ports' entire portfolio, including facilities at Liverpool, Heysham, Manchester Ship Canal, London Medway, Clydeport sites, Great Yarmouth, and Dublin Port.

The 18 companies selected for the framework include A E Yates, C Spencer, Charles Brand, Erith Contractors, Glencar, GPS Marine & Civil Services, J Murphy & Sons, Jackson Framework, John Graham Construction, JT Mackley & Co, Lagan Aviation & Infrastructure, Mackenzie Construction, McLaughlin & Harvey, Octavius, RJ McLeod, Southbay Civil Engineering, Story Contracting, and Taziker Industrial.

Lewis McIntyre, Managing Director - Port Services at Peel Ports Group, said: "We're pleased to announce the 18 contractors who have been selected to carry out this important work across our ports in the UK and Ireland.

“This rigorous procurement process has allowed us to select the very best regional and national partners, who will support the ongoing development of our network of logistics hubs.

“We look forward to working closely with them on the design and build of various exciting projects in the months and years ahead, all of which are the result of substantial investment in the future of our operations."

The General Construction lot encompasses drainage works, road and car park construction, ground remediation, foundations, warehouse construction, concrete works, rail construction, bridge works, and demolition.

Marine Construction includes specialist works such as piling, asset renewal, berthing furniture, quay walls, lock maintenance, and RoRo facilities.

Contractors were required to demonstrate excellence in health, safety, environmental and quality requirements, while supporting Peel Ports' goal to become a net-zero port operator by 2040.