The University of Cumbria is searching for a new contractor after Sir Robert McAlpine withdrew from the £78m Carlisle Citadels project.
- Construction was planned to begin in the first half of 2023 but is now delayed until early 2025.
- McAlpine’s withdrawal was due to success in securing other large-scale infrastructure projects.
- The project budget, including fees, land acquisition, and VAT, amounts to £77.5 million.
- Despite this setback, the university remains optimistic about the project’s transformational potential.
The University of Cumbria is currently in search of a new contractor to lead the £78 million Citadels project in Carlisle after Sir Robert McAlpine decided to withdraw. McAlpine’s decision to step aside stems from their recent success in acquiring two major infrastructure projects, necessitating a shift in their focus and resources.
Originally, construction was set to commence in the first half of 2023, with completion projected for spring 2026. However, the change in contractors has pushed back the anticipated start to early 2025, now extending the completion date to the spring of 2027. This delay underscores the complex nature of large-scale construction projects, which are often subject to unforeseen adjustments and challenges.
The total financial allocation for the project, encompassing fees, land acquisition, and VAT, is estimated at £77.5 million. Notably, the construction contract itself is valued at £55 million, excluding VAT and client-side costs. These figures highlight the significant investment being made by the university, underscoring its commitment to enhancing its educational infrastructure.
Mark Swindlehurst, the chief operating officer of the University of Cumbria, has expressed enthusiasm about moving forward with this transformational project. He emphasises the existence of a well-prepared design and the university’s intent to initiate the tender process soon to select a new contractor. Swindlehurst is optimistic about the positive impact this development will have on both the university and the wider region.
Sir Robert McAlpine, while stepping back from direct involvement, retains a vested interest in the Citadels campus’s successful completion. Grant Findlay, the firm’s executive managing director of buildings, has expressed pride in the project and affirmed their intention to support it through their supply chain. This continued collaboration underscores the significance of the project within the construction community.
The University of Cumbria remains committed to the successful realisation of the Citadels project despite the temporary setback.
