DBFO CONTRACTS AND BRIDGE PERFORMANCE CONSIDERATIONS

In design, build, finance and operate (DBFO) contracts the contractor is permitted to use innovative methods for building and maintaining bridges and other stuctures subject to compliance with the core client requirements. This paper discusses the current position regarding DBFO contracts in England and the new issues that are arising. Details are given of procedures covered by the 'Illustrative Requirements' which contain the technical standards required for bridges in BDFO. Further consideration is then given to a) operations and maintenance, b) handback and c) risk transfer and management. The author considers that the responsibility of a 30 year maintenance liability will produce more durable and maintenance-free bridges than earlier arrangments. For the covering abstract see IRRD 898092.