Galliford Try has assumed responsibility for the Banwell bypass, following the previous contractor’s withdrawal.
- The Banwell bypass project, valued at £89.2 million, was stalled when Alun Griffiths exited the contract earlier this year.
- Galliford Try is now entrusted with the initial phase of the contract, which involves preparatory works and detailed design completion.
- North Somerset Council anticipates deciding on Galliford Try’s continued involvement this autumn, aiming for construction completion by winter 2026.
- Funding is supported partially by Homes England, aimed at alleviating traffic between the A38 and Weston-super-Mare.
The Banwell bypass project, an ambitious £89.2 million road scheme, has seen a change in leadership six months after Alun Griffiths, the original contractor, opted out. The departure left the project in limbo, necessitating swift action to identify a suitable successor to restart and eventually complete the works.
Galliford Try has been appointed to oversee the first phase of a two-stage contract. This initial stage includes completing preparatory works and finalising the detailed design. According to the council, discussions are ongoing to determine if Galliford Try will proceed to the main contract, with a decision expected by autumn. Should the firm take on the full project, major construction is projected to conclude by winter 2026.
The council has expressed optimism about the collaboration with Galliford Try. Council Leader Mike Bell remarked on the progression, noting the positive dynamic and extending gratitude to the local community and Homes England for support. “We’re raring to go and to get spades in the ground as soon as we can,” Bell commented, highlighting the keen anticipation of further developments.
Planning permission for the project was granted earlier this year in March, with land assembly reaching completion last month. This followed approval from the Department for Transport in January for compulsory purchase orders, essential for acquiring necessary land parcels to pave the way for construction.
A significant portion of the project funding is sourced from Homes England’s Housing Infrastructure Fund, which aims to support infrastructure improvements in areas of high housing demand. The primary objective of the Banwell bypass is to alleviate congestion and enhance traffic flow on the key route linking the A38 with Weston-super-Mare.
The advancement of the Banwell bypass is poised to significantly ease traffic congestion, enhancing regional connectivity.
