Improve public sector project outcomes through collaborative contracting 

How local authorities are using NEC Contracts to deliver better infrastructure

Improve public sector project outcomes through collaborative contracting 

Why collaboration matters for public sector delivery 

Traditional contracting has held public sector projects back, driving delays, disputes and escalating costs for taxpayers. Collaborative contracting changes the dynamic by aligning incentives and encouraging early problem-solving rather than blame.

With NEC’s collaborative contracts, public sector clients can:

  • Reduce disputes through a clear requirement to act in a spirit of mutual trust and cooperation.
  • Manage risk earlier via structured early warnings, risk registers and risk reduction meetings.
  • Improve time and cost certainty with robust programme management and target cost options.
  • Embed sustainability and social value through climate-focused and whole-life performance clauses.

For more information download the white paper: The Public Sector Case for Collaborative Contracting which explains why collaborative contracting is now the preferred approach across the UK Government.

Download whitepaper

See collaboration in action across UK local authorities 

 Watch this sector roundup to see how NEC Contracts supports place-shaping, improves risk management and strengthens supply chain relationships across local infrastructure programmes.



What is NEC?

NEC Contracts is a globally recognised suite of collaborative contracts and training that helps organisations deliver projects on time, on budget and with fewer disputes. Developed by industry practitioners, NEC Contracts promotes proactive management, clarity and strong relationships across all parties involved.

NEC has been used successfully on key local authority projects across the UK, from major road and bridge programmes to urban regeneration and flood alleviation schemes.

How a local authority partnership delivered £200m of highways improvements with NEC 

Discover how the Midlands Highways Alliance used NEC collaborative frameworks to deliver over £200 million of highways improvements across the region. This case study reveals how early contractor involvement, shared risk, and a “one team” approach led to £22M in project savings, accelerated delivery, and a highly commended NEC Client of the Year award.

Read full case study

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Build capability and confidence with NEC Training

Collaborative contracting delivers the best results when teams understand how to apply it day to day. NEC Training provides bespoke, in-house learning aligned to your contract choices, governance requirements and project goals.

Training is delivered by experienced NEC practitioners and focuses on practical scenarios such as setting up risk registers, running early warning processes and managing programmes, helping teams build confidence quickly.

Find out more

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