The Centre for Construction Best Practice (CCBP) is calling on contractors of all sizes to contribute to a major research project on early contractor involvement (ECI).
The study will explore the benefits of bringing contractors on board earlier, particularly through early RIBA stages and two-stage procurement, and is based on a coordinated push to tackle delivery challenges in public sector construction schemes.
The project has the backing of the government, tier ones and five universities known for their expertise in the built environment.
Mike Reader MP, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Excellence in the Built Environment, said: “We know that ECI has been critical to many successful infrastructure and building schemes. But the public sector still struggles to make this the norm across its projects. This research will drive change in public projects delivery.”
The research follows a roundtable discussion with main contractors including BAM, Kier, Morgan Sindall, Stepnell and Wates, where ECI emerged as a consistent theme.
Although contractors cited ECI as critical to ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery, they also raised concerns about inconsistent adoption and barriers to effective implementation across the public sector.
Better project outcomes
Stephen Beechey, group public sector director at Wates, said: “At Wates, we’ve long championed the value of ECI in delivering better value, faster, and more sustainable outcomes for public sector projects. This research by CCBP is a vital step in evidencing what we’ve seen time and again – involving contractors early leads to smarter planning, reduced risk, and better project outcomes for government and the communities we serve.
“Working alongside prestigious research institutions, government and our peers in the construction industry, we’re proud to support this initiative and look forward to seeing its findings shape future policy and procurement strategies across the UK.”
The CCBP was launched last year as an organisation aiming to bridge the gap between academia and industry in the UK built environment sector.
The call for evidence is now open and will close on 30 September 2025. Contractors interested in contributing can do so via the CCBP website or by clicking here.
