The Banwell Bypass scheme managed by Galliford Try faces a six-month delay and rising costs due to complex water main diversions.
The long-awaited Banwell Bypass project has hit further disruption, with contractor Galliford Try facing a six-month delay and escalating costs. The set-backs stem primarily from complex water main diversions along the planned route, adding logistical challenges to an already troubled infrastructure scheme.
Galliford Try took over the contract in 2024 following the unexpected departure of the original contractor, Alun Griffiths, while enabling works were already underway. Managing existing utility networks during major civil engineering projects remains a key source of budget inflation and scheduling conflict across UK infrastructure schemes.
Unmapped or complex utility diversions regularly present risk for civil engineering contractors. Delays to main arterial bypasses disrupt local traffic management plans, strain local authority budgets, and alter sub-contractor timelines across the supply chain.
What does this mean for a UK tradesperson or DIYer actually buying this kit — does it change what they should pay, buy, or watch out for?
While this project delay directly impacts major civil contracting, local trade businesses, plant hirers, and sub-contractors operating in the region must adjust for shifting work windows and project schedules. Infrastructure bottlenecks and extended project timelines often lock up local plant equipment and specialist labor. Sub-contractors working around major civils schemes should ensure contingency clauses are built into their quotes when pricing secondary works, protecting themselves against indirect delays and cost increases tied to main-contractor utility complications.
Reported by Construction News — original article
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