Tender issued for Blanchardstown transit partnership
The National Transport Authority (NTA) is seeking an Integrated Delivery Support Services Partner (IDSSP) for the Blanchardstown Interchange writes David Keniry.
The NTA on behalf of Blanche Developments Limited (BDL) is procuring IDSSP who will be a multi-disciplinary engineering consultant, to support and supervise the design and construction of the ‘Blanchardstown Interchange Works’ (BIW) (including a Bus Plaza) to be constructed under a design-and-build type contract.
While the procurement process will be conducted by the NTA, the contracting party will ultimately be BDL (either by way of novation of the contract by the NTA or by direct entry into contract by BDL).
Whilst it is intended that the BIW will be constructed under a design-and-build contract, the IDSSP will develop the design of the Bus Plaza element of BIW and prepare the detailed scope of work for inclusion in the tender documents for the procurement of a construction contractor, as an employer designed element of the construction contract. The IDSSP will manage the tendering process for procurement of services of the construction contractor, oversee the delivery of infrastructure works and supervise the performance of the construction contractor.
The works will commence at the south end of the Blanchardstown Road North bridge over the N3 at junction 3 (Blanchardstown / Mulhuddart)and proceed along the R121 (Blanchardstown Road South) into the Blanchardstown Town Centre. From a new bus plaza to the north-west of Blanchardstown Town Centre, the works will continue towards and terminate at the Snugborough Road junction.
The Bus Plaza is an important element of BIW and comprises of a physical bus interchange and driver welfare facility structure in the Blanchardstown Interchange. BIW (including the bus plaza) forms part of the Blanchardstown to City Centre Core Bus Corridor Scheme, within the BusConnects Dublin Core Bus Corridor Infrastructure Works (“CBCIW”).
The CBCIW are being delivered by the National Transport Authority to provide approximately 230km of bus priority and approximately 200km of cycle routes across Dublin and the Greater Dublin Area. The key objectives of CBCIW are to enhance the capacity and potential of the public transport system, enhance the potential for cycling by providing safe infrastructure for cycling, support the delivery of an efficient, low carbon and climate resilient public transport service and enable compact growth, regeneration opportunities and improve accessibility.
Latest time and date for submission of the SAQ Submission is 24th January 2025.
Blanche Developments Limited (BDL) is currently owned by Goldman Sachs.
In November Connecticut-based Strategic Value Partners, LLC and its affiliates (together, “SVP”), a global alternative investment firm with approximately $19 billion of assets under management, announced that SVP-managed funds have agreed to acquire Blanchardstown Centre, a prime retail and leisure destination in Ireland.
SVP plans to make significant investments in Blanchardstown Centre, including enhancements to its food and beverage offerings. SVP will work closely with Fingal County Council, existing tenants, and Falcon Asset Management to elevate the centre’s appeal and strengthen its position as a premier retail destination for visitors and tenants alike.
“As a centrepiece in Dublin’s retail sector, we’re excited by the opportunities Blanchardstown Centre presents” said Mike Ungari, Global Head of Real Estate at SVP. “Our goal is to build on the facility’s strengths, and we are committed to ensuring Blanchardstown continues to set the benchmark for retail and leisure excellence in the region.”
The acquisition is expected to complete prior to year-end, subject to regulatory approvals.
The proposed acquisition by Strategic Value Partners LLC of the entire issued share capital, and thus sole control, of Blanche Developments Limited and The Blanchardstown Fund has been notified to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.
