URL: https://democracy.southend.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1540

Decision Maker: Leader – Cabinet Member for Infrastructure and Corporate Strategy

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: Approval is sought to appoint Balfour Beatty contractor to deliver pre-construction services and early works for the Leigh Port Redevelopment project. This will include key deliverables such as procurement of major packages and site compound requirements, temporary works design, site access planning, development of the construction programme, health and safety compliance, liaison with stakeholders and statutory bodies as required and completion of essential surveys before construction. These activities will ensure site readiness for main construction starting in October 2026.

Content: 1. The Leigh Port Regeneration Project requires approval to commence pre?construction and early works to enable main construction to commence in October 2026.   2. The project has moved through design and value engineering and now needs the Principal Contractor in place to lead programme development and to discharge Principal Contractor duties under CDM 2015. This will include taking responsibility for temporary works planning and associated procurement, undertaking necessary surveys, as well as engaging with the wider supply chain to secure accurate pricing for the main construction works. To appoint a new Principal Contractor. This option was rejected to maintain continuity and avoid abortive work. The current Principal Contractor has already undertaken key activities, including buildability reviews, initial supply chain engagement, construction programming, and cost planning. They have also supported value engineering, contributing to a reduction in overall project costs. Appointing a new contractor at this stage would duplicate effort, require revalidation of existing work, and introduce delays and additional costs, making it inefficient and impractical within the programme timeline and available budget.

Date of Decision: January 16, 2026