Borders Rail – Fluor Limited Withdraws From Consortium
The future of the Borders Rail project has suffered a set-back following the unexpected withdrawal of Fluor Limited from one of the bidding consortia.
The reasons for Fluor pulling out of the bid, leaving behind consortium partners Miller Construction and Uberior Infrastructure Investments in the process, are unknown and are to remain confidential but there has been speculation that the decision may be connected with delays to the project and alteration to the specification of the contract.
Questions have been raised in respect of whether there will be a knock-on effect in terms of value for money resulting from reduced competition for the contract. Transport Scotland has been keen to point out that it is not uncommon for bidders to withdraw during the procurement process, and regard the project as “on track” despite this development. The other two bidders (BAM UK and IMCD) have not been affected by Fluor’s withdrawal. Interestingly, and taking little heed of such behind the scenes goings-on, advance works such as the demolition of the Cowbraehill bridge are continuing. A preferred bidder is expected to be announced in September 2011.