Navigating the Procurement Act

Speaking at Housing 2025 on a panel hosted by Kier Places, Gavin Mason, operations director at Pick Everard, joined sector leaders to discuss the early effects of the Act. The session examined the challenges ahead but also highlighted the potential for change if the sector takes the right steps now.

A catalyst for change

In the initial phase of the discussion, Gavin said: “The government wants to see more homes built, and it’s committing to spend, but we’re not yet seeing that volume coming through. That’s due to a number of factors, including wider policy pressures like the Building Safety Act, increasing aversion to risk in the context of Section 114 notices, and ongoing funding constraints.”

However, the Procurement Act could help the public sector procure its suppliers quicker and more effectively. With a stronger emphasis on consistency, accountability, and long-term planning, the new framework offers an opportunity to streamline delivery and build greater confidence across the supply chain.

“If the investment is made in making sustainable changes to the way in which procurement is delivered then it will lead to better outcomes for everyone involved: housing providers, contractors, supply chains and ultimately, residents.”

Procurement and AI

One of the key opportunities under the Act is the use of digital tools and AI to improve procurement practices. Fellow panel member John Hudson, Senior Business Development Manager, Kier Places, shared how using AI to draft and assess bid responses saves time and improves quality.

Gavin welcomed this direction. “There’s real potential here. AI can absolutely help streamline some of the more resource-heavy aspects of procurement but only if the foundations are in place. That means investing in the right templates, the right systems, and a clear pipeline of work. If we do that, it becomes a much more efficient and inclusive process.”

Transparency and consistency

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the need for transparency and consistency.

For Gavin, this is a central benefit of the new approach. “If every authority issued the same baseline information about their upcoming projects, it would save time, reduce confusion, and help suppliers engage more confidently. It’s about giving everyone a fair shot and getting the right responses to the right opportunities.”

While the Act doesn’t impose penalties for non-compliance in some areas, Gavin believes the industry has a role to play in driving cultural change. “We need to create a system that works for everyone. That means sharing best practice, setting clear expectations, and encouraging openness.”

Driving social value

One of the most exciting opportunities the Procurement Act presents is its potential to deliver more tangible social value.

“Social value shouldn’t just be a tick-box exercise. But it does need to be embedded from the start. From our experience, making sure our clients can receive and track social value is key to making it real.”

A collaborative future

Gavin’s reflections are grounded in both optimism and practicality. While the Procurement Act introduces new responsibilities, it also provides the framework for a more efficient, transparent, and value-driven sector.

“The Procurement Act is an important piece of legislation but it’s early days and there is still work to do. With the right processes and systems in place - which fundamentally requires some investment - it will pay dividends across the industry.”

As the sector continues to adapt, the Procurement Act stands as a timely reminder: with clarity, collaboration, and a commitment to change, the housing sector can rise to the challenge and deliver homes and communities that meet the needs of today and tomorrow.