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Banwell Bypass Gets New Contractor: Galliford Try Steps In

Long-delayed Banwell Bypass project secures new contractor, aiming to reduce congestion and unlock housing growth.

Author

John Stephenson
September 12, 2024

After months of uncertainty, North Somerset’s £90m Banwell Bypass project is back on track with Galliford Try now taking the reins. The project, long delayed and inflated in cost, aims to alleviate congestion in Banwell and unlock new housing opportunities.

What happened

  • Galliford Try has replaced Alun Griffiths as the lead contractor for the Banwell Bypass, a 3.3 km single carriageway intended to reduce traffic in Banwell village.

  • Alun Griffiths, originally appointed in 2021, withdrew from the project earlier in 2024 without completing any major construction, leaving the council scrambling for a replacement.

  • North Somerset Council quickly moved to appoint Galliford Try, which will now complete preparatory works before moving onto full construction.

Why it matters

This bypass has been in discussion since 1927, and traffic congestion in Banwell has been a long-standing issue. The new bypass:

  • Will reduce traffic jams in Banwell, particularly on narrow roads.

  • Includes cycling and walking paths, as well as nature-enhancing projects like ponds and woodlands.

  • Will unlock land for the construction of 2,800 homes, driving regional growth.

Catch-up

  • The project was initially valued at £66m in 2019 but has since ballooned to £89.2m due to inflation.

  • The Department for Transport approved Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs) in early 2024, but shortly afterward, Alun Griffiths pulled out.

  • Despite delays, environmental work like planting and vegetation removal started in April to keep the project moving.

By the numbers

  • £89.2m: The latest cost of the project.

  • £77.3m: Funded by Homes England.

  • £11.9m: Contributed by North Somerset Council.

  • 3.3 km: Length of the new road.

  • 2026: Target completion date.

What’s next

Galliford Try will complete initial design and preparatory works. The main construction is expected to start before the end of 2024, pending final approval from North Somerset Council, with a completion target of winter 2026.

Bottom line

Despite setbacks, North Somerset remains committed to delivering the Banwell Bypass, with construction expected to start soon, and a crucial step taken with Galliford Try now on board.