CaRT launch a crazy £800 millions package of contracting works!

The publication Construction News has reported that Canal & River Trust has launched an £800 millions package of construction works for its waterways!

It reports that the package, known as the Civil Engineering Construction Framework Contract, includes two national lots for more complex civil works, and six regional lots for non-complex works. Contractors will be involved in scheme design and development as well as the delivery of the works, Kelvin Alexander-Duggan reports.

Initial four years contracts

The companies that win a place on the frameworks will be contracted for an initial four years, with the option to extend by a further six years.

The two biggest lots are the complex works in the North West, Yorkshire and the North East worth £250m and similar works in Wales, the South, London and the Midlands, worth £250m. These will include major works to aqueducts, bridges, reservoirs and embankments, flood protection, tunnels and water management.

The regional lots will focus on smaller projects up to £1m in value, on works such as canal construction, footpath works, bridge renewals and grouting and masonry work.

Appoint up to 14 firms

The Trust is to appoint up to 14 firms which are due to begin in April 2022.  Contractors have until 5th February 2021 to register their interest, with an invitation to tender expected by June next year.

The value of the lots:

Complex North West, Yorkshire and North East £250m
Complex Wales, South West, London, South East, Midlands £250m
Non-complex North West £75m
Non-complex Yorkshire and North East £75m
Non-complex Wales and South West £37.5m
Non-complex London and South East £37.5m
Non-complex West Midlands £37.5m
Non-complex East Midlands £37.5m

Pie in the sky?

Where will Canal & River Trust find £800 millions?  Its accounts shows a yearly income of £216.1 millions and an expenditure of £194.1 millions, leaving £22 millions spare cash over the year...