Bouygues UK has been named as the Preferred Tenderer to build the 12,000 capacity Bristol Arena, due to open in 2018 close to Bristol Temple Meads station. Bouygues UK is one of the country’s top construction and development companies, with an office in Bristol and a strong presence in the region. It is part of the global Bouygues group that has experience delivering flagship venues around the world, including the Singapore Sports Hub, the Stade Vélodrome football stadium in Marseille and the Maracanã Stadium in Rio.
Bristol City Council intends to award a Pre-construction Services Agreement to Bouygues UK for first phase pre-construction services following a two stage design and build procurement exercise. During the first phase the council will work with Bouygues UK, as Preferred Tenderer, to agree a final package of works and target cost for the arena prior to awarding a building contract, following Cabinet approval, in the summer.
George Ferguson, Mayor of Bristol said:
‘I am delighted with the outcome of this contractor selection process that marks an important step towards delivering this vitally important new venue for Bristol and the region. Bouygues UK is part of a hugely experienced construction company that has delivered major projects around the world. They delivered the award-winning Aardman Animations building locally and also have a very good track record of delivering local jobs and training opportunities for local people which is something that I was particularly keen to see assessed as part of the tender process.’
Bouygues UK’s Regional Managing Director for the Western region, Chris Stevens, added:
‘We are excited to be working with the council on the new Bristol Arena development which will finally see a new, world class arena and entertainment venue for the city, as well as the wider region.’
With a capacity of 12,000, the Bristol Arena is located in the Bristol Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone. International arena design team Populous together with Bath-based architects Feilden Clegg Bradley and engineering firm BuroHappold have developed plans for the innovative and flexible arena.
Two planning applications are due to be considered by a planning committee on 2 March. One detailed application is for the arena building and access, and the other is an outline application for the future development of housing, business and leisure uses adjacent to the venue. The plans are designed to make Arena Island a vibrant place and busy throughout the week, transforming a derelict part of the city close to Temple Meads station.
