Kier and Eiffage form 50/50 joint venture for HS2 contracts following Carillion collapse

739
Listen to this article

The two remaining members of HS2’s CEK joint venture are to move forward as a 50/50 partnership to deliver two of the seven construction contracts for the London to Birmingham line.

Kier and Eiffage have been in discussions with the government since it emerged last week that Carillion – the C in CEK – had entered compulsory liquidation.

The announcement provides some assurance that work will be able to progress as planned on the project.

Haydn Mursell, chief executive of Kier, said: “We have been working collaboratively with our clients and are pleased to have reached agreement with government.

“We have been able to take action quickly and reassure the project teams that they continue to play an important role in the delivery of these contracts.”


Read More: How will collapse of Carillion impact HS2?


Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “This announcement demonstrates the strength and purpose of the joint venture contracts agreed on HS2 works and the smart motorways programme. These have enabled Kier and Eiffage to step in as planned and guarantee continued employment, apprenticeships and the seamless delivery of these vital projects.

“HS2 and Highways England carried out at the point of award, additional due diligence to ensure, even without Carillion, these projects would continue. Both Highways England and HS2 will, of course, continue to monitor the situation.”

Mark Thurston, chief executive of HS2 Ltd, said: “We welcome this decision by the remaining JV partners. Through this difficult time the team has continued to deliver and we’re grateful for their ongoing hard work and dedication.

“No time delays or costs implication have come about as a result of the events of this week, underlining the strength of the joint venture approach taken by HS2 in procuring its partners.”