Skanska has been appointed preferred bidder by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) to design and build a £75million barracks in Woodbridge, Suffolk, under the MOD’s prime contracting initiative. This is where Skanska is responsible for assembling and managing the entire supply chain, including project consultants, and is the MOD’s main point of contact throughout the project.
The project involves providing facilities to accommodate, train and maintain a new regiment that will support 16 Air Assault Brigade that is part of a fast reaction task force supporting Britain’s defence commitments.
Skanska will combine its group resources to carry out the contract, with Skanska Rashleigh Weatherfoil responsible for design and installation of the building services as well as carrying out FM when the barracks become operational.
Other key members of Skanska’s supply chain include the international architectural practice HOK International, M&E and structural engineer WSP, and cost consultant DL&E.
As preferred contractor, Skanska will now finalise the project’s design and costs with the MOD, with contract award set for the end of the year. Construction work will begin soon after and be completed by mid 2006. Facilities at the new barracks will include officers’ mess, firing ranges and assault courses as well as sports, training, dining and medical facilities.
The award comes as Skanska is over half-way through its £340 million PFI project to modernise and create an open plan environment for the MOD’s Whitehall headquarters, with completion set for next year.