Having committed itself to transforming the Western Docks with a new cargo terminal supported by an exciting waterfront development and potential marina, the Port of Dover has taken another major step forward following the signing of an agreement.
In its role, GRAHAM, a nationwide contractor with extensive marine construction experience, will work with the Port of Dover team as part of a Pre-Construction Agreement. The work will involve finalising the design and cost plans for the marine civil engineering works for the new development.
A successful outcome from the Pre-Construction Agreement should lead to an award of the principal construction contract with a view to commencing on site in early 2016, and opening the Western Docks cargo terminal in 2017.
Tim Waggott, Chief Executive of Port of Dover, said: “Dover Western Docks Revival is a key part of our vision to create the best port in the world for the benefit of our customers, the local community and the UK economy.
“Following today’s announcement, everybody in the town will be able to see that we are delivering on our promise to create 600 new quality jobs, and safeguard 140 existing port jobs, for Dover. I’m delighted to say that we have already signed a number of non-disclosure agreements with potential users of the cargo terminal and development partners.
“The team from GRAHAM has a strong reputation for collaborative working and this will give the opportunity for Kent companies to tender for as many parts of the project as they feel able to deliver. We will be holding a series of joint ‘meet the buyer’ events later in the year.
“Dover is currently seeing an unprecedented level of investment and it is great to see that there is now a shared vision to take the district forward for the benefit of its residents, businesses and visitors. The Port is committed to playing its part in making Dover a place to shout about and celebrate.”
GRAHAM delivers construction, asset management and project investment services to a diverse range of clients in the public and private sector. Employing more than 1,600 people and with a current turnover of more than £490m per year, GRAHAM is a privately owned company with a network of regional offices throughout the UK and Ireland.
Commenting on the contract, Malcolm Loader, Business Development Director – Ports at GRAHAM, said: “We are looking forward to working in collaboration with the Port of Dover team to develop the optimum design solutions for the infrastructure elements of the Dover Western Dock.
“This project gives us the opportunity to bring to the fore the experience we have gained from working on projects for numerous ports across the UK.
“It is our intention to work with the local supply chain to ensure we not only provide value to the Port of Dover, but also to create a lasting legacy for the community.”
Procured under EU Official Journal regulations over the last 11 months, the GRAHAM contract will focus on all the marine civil engineering design and construction costings, including the quays, pier walls and reclamation required to deliver this new piece of land within the port.
Nigel Bodell, Head of Port Development at the Port of Dover, said: “We have held a series of workshops with our customers and others in the fruit logistics industry. The reaction to our plans has been very positive, as we will be able to welcome larger vessels into Dover thanks to the construction of longer and deeper berths.
“Our ferry customers will also benefit, as we will free up space in the Eastern Docks to further improve facilities and increase lane capacity. This will help create a more efficient dedicated ferry terminal and increase the resilience of the Port in accommodating increased ferry traffic.”
In order to deliver the Dover Western Docks Revival project, which will have around 200 construction workers on site during its peak, the Port recognises the need for a robust transport management plan, and intends to bring as much of the construction materials in by sea as possible. Junction improvements on the A20, as approved by Highways England, are also being reviewed in order to ensure the optimum solution for both Port and town.
Work will commence on key enabling works on the Prince of Wales Pier, involving a reduction in its height. This means it will no longer be open to the public after the summer due to the construction works.
Mr Waggott added: “Whilst we acknowledge the closure of the pier will temporarily reduce the public provisions on the seafront, the commencement of construction works by GRAHAM represent a shared vision becoming reality and a big step towards a much more vibrant and interesting waterfront for us all to enjoy. We are creating a destination.”
