THREE Scottish firms have earned subcontracts to supply raw materials for the Forth Replacement Crossing.
Forth Crossing Bridge Constructors has awarded multiple orders for materials and equipment required for concrete production on the project. These orders are expected to secure jobs and benefit businesses at several locations in Scotland.
Ready-mix pre-batched concrete will be supplied from two local businesses for the many small quantity concrete works associated with the bridge approach roads. This maximises opportunities to involve local suppliers and workers.
The first of these is with Tarmac, from their facilities in South Gyle and Livingston, who will supply works on the south side of the Forth.
The second supplier is the Skene Group, from their facilities in Fife, for the works on the north side of the Forth.
A subcontract for the supply of concrete to be used in the main bridge has been awarded to Tarmac from the Revelrig Quarry, West Lothian and facilities in Lanarkshire. Tarmac intends to add five additional local employees to their existing workforce (24 people) as a result of this contract.
FCBC has also confirmed that a subcontract for cement and admixture materials has been awarded to UK based Aggregate Industries who will recruit a further full-time managerial position to their depot in Glasgow to support this subcontract.
A spokesperson for the consortium said: “We have invited and received quotes from all competent suitable companies in Scotland, Britain and most of Europe for aggregates, cement, cement additives and ready mix concrete and after extensive quality and mix tests selected the most appropriate based on price, suitability and quality. This will ensure the very best deal on price, durability and appearance. The various components of concrete all have to interact correctly to make this possible.”
Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure Alex Neil said: “The FRC project is delivering and will continue to deliver real benefits for Scottish businesses and Scottish workers. It will support 1,200 Scottish jobs and secure an additional 3,000 more. Construction will deliver an annual average of 45 vocational training positions, 21 professional body training places and 46 positions for the long term unemployed, as well as providing further scope to maximise Modern Apprenticeship opportunities.
“We are currently 9 months into a 6 year construction period and there are many more subcontracts from the Principal Contract to come. 118 Scottish firms have already risen to the challenge of working on this iconic project – and the total value to Scottish firms is around £20 million with more to be announced. In addition, 870 out of 1,041 supply orders awarded on the Principal Contract have already gone to Scottish companies.
“We are confident that Scottish innovation, ingenuity and enterprise will continue to secure work related to the new crossing and other major projects.”
