Transport Advisory Services Framework (STARFour)

The Department for Transport (DfT) is establishing STARFour, a new multi-lot framework agreement to replace the expiring STARThree Framework (ending July 2027). This framework will provide specialist technical and commercial advisory services for transport infrastructure across all sectors—rail, road, maritime, and aviation—to support the DfT, its Arms Length Bodies (ALBs), and other qualifying public bodies. STARFour aims to increase SME participation, encourage innovation, and deliver better value for money through streamlined procurement routes including mini-competitions and direct awards. The framework is critical for addressing evolving transport challenges including net zero strategies, decarbonisation, multi-modal integration, and industry restructuring. This is a closed framework, meaning suppliers must be pre-approved to deliver services. The framework will succeed STARThree following market engagement and formal approvals.