The Bristol Bulk Handling Terminal

This paper discusses the procurement of a bulk handling terminal at Bristol in the United Kingdom. The project was complex. It involved the procurement and commissioning of materials handling plant and equipment and extensive civil and marine works. The overall project value was £110 million, of which some £70 million was in the main terminal contract. A design and build procurement route was selected, giving the potential for fast-track construction techniques and innovative contractor-led design. Because of the tight programme, an accelerated procedure was developed to enable the contract to be let in minimal time. The works, including environmental enhancements not part of the original scheme, were completed within a construction period of 22 months. The success of the project is considered to be largely due to the programme advantage derived from the design and build form of contract and proactive project management.