Galliford Try has been appointed as the new contractor for the significant Banwell Bypass project in Somerset, previously held by Alun Griffiths.
- The bypass aims to construct a 3.3km single carriageway to alleviate traffic congestion in Banwell, with Galliford Try now managing the initial phases of the project.
- North Somerset Council had previously granted compulsory purchase orders, and Homes England increased its funding to meet inflation-driven costs.
- The completion of preparatory works and the commencement of primary construction awaits further approval from North Somerset Council.
- Despite previous setbacks, the project is scheduled to commence construction by the end of 2024, aiming for completion in winter 2026.
North Somerset Council has officially appointed Galliford Try to replace Alun Griffiths as the contractor for the £89.2 million Banwell Bypass project. This development follows Alun Griffiths’s unexpected withdrawal earlier this year, despite their involvement since 2021. The project, which centres on the construction of a vital 3.3km single carriageway connecting the A371 and A368, promises to significantly reduce traffic congestion in the village of Banwell, a persistent issue for nearly a century.
Compulsory purchase orders for the required land were successfully obtained by the council from the Department for Transport earlier this year. However, Alun Griffiths’s exit necessitated contractual changes. In response, North Somerset Council initiated environmental enabling works in April, marking the first steps in a multi-phase process as they sought a new contractor.
Galliford Try’s initial responsibilities involve finalising preparatory efforts and addressing detailed design elements that align with planning conditions. The transition to major construction activities is contingent on the full council’s sanctioning in an upcoming autumn meeting. Despite the delays, current estimates predict construction will begin by the end of 2024, with completion targeted for winter 2026.
The bypass project was initially proposed in 1927 but only gained momentum recently, with planning approval received in March 2023. The estimated cost was significantly impacted by inflation, rising from £66 million in 2019 to the current £89.2 million. Homes England has substantially increased its financial contribution to £77.3 million, with North Somerset Council providing the additional £11.9 million necessary to bridge the funding gap.
Beyond the primary carriageway, the ambitious infrastructure initiative encompasses the construction of a bridge, ten culverts, two link roads, and junction improvements. A new Banwell Road junction on the A371 is also part of the development, supporting broader regional growth by unlocking sites for 2,800 new homes.
North Somerset Council’s leader, Mike Bell, emphasised the scheme’s importance, noting its potential to resolve long-standing traffic issues while facilitating housing development and promoting biodiversity. His commendations further extend towards Galliford Try, highlighting the positive collaboration thus far and the shared commitment towards prompt project execution.
The Banwell Bypass is poised to significantly transform traffic flow and regional development, with construction expected to start late 2024.
