According to client Transport Scotland, FCBC’s successful bid of US$1.286 billion at today’s prices, represents a significant saving on the initial estimated cost range of US$1.465 billion to US$1.95 billion.
This bid for the principal contract excludes VAT and inflation. By incorporating this bid value and removing the cost of capital charge the FRC project now has a revised total out-turn cost of US$2.39 to US$2.64 billion; a significant reduction on the project’s original estimated cost range of US$2.8 to US$3.7 billion.
FCBC was chosen ahead of Forthspan, the other consortium bidding for the contract, following an 18 month competitive tendering process. Both bids were found to be valid and of a high standard following a rigorous assessment of technical, quality and cost aspects.
It is intended to award the contract to FCBC in April, subject to a mandatory standstill period, with construction starting on site soon after. The FRC project is currently on schedule to be completed in 2016 when it will replace the current Forth Road Bridge as the main crossing.
