Griffiths Farrans JV has today revealed a full analysis of its positive impact on the local economy during its construction of the Public Transport Interchange at Bristol Airport earlier this year.
The £60 million project, part of the Airport’s £400 million transformation programme, has already demonstrated how it will enable more sustainable journeys to and from the Airport with up to 250 public transport movements a day. As part of adding value to the project delivery during construction an extensive social value programme was developed in line with the social and economic needs of the local region.
Throughout the delivery period the project supported 18 apprentices and two T-Level placements project, and with a focus on providing opportunities for local people 12 of those were local residents to the Airport. In addition, over 23% of the total staff employed were local people who came from within 20 miles of the airport, accounting for over 10,000 hours worked.
Local sourcing on the project supported sustainability, boosted efficiency, and delivered significant social and economic value. The concrete supplier, for example, was based less than five miles from the Airport providing significant local spend and employment within their operations and overall 30% of suppliers came from within a 50-mile radius.
The Griffiths Farrans team also set about creating connections with local communities through outreach, volunteering and donations. Financial contributions of £56,000 were made to local community and charity initiatives including Great Western Air Ambulance and Uncle Paul’s Chilli Farm, while almost 500 hours of volunteering time was given to local community projects – equating to £9k of social value return.
Overall the project delivered £14.1m social return on investment value, as calculated using the TOMs framework. This represents 26% in added value for the local community.
Suzanne Lutton, Head of Stakeholder and Social Value at Farrans said: “It is always a proud moment to see a new project opening and we have received a lot of positivity about the Public Transport Interchange at Bristol Airport. Throughout the build we were embarking on an ambitious programme of social value and I am pleased to be able to reveal our final figures today. There is no doubt that the money we have kept in this region will have a significant impact for many years to come.”
Griffiths Regional Director, Simon Dunn added “As partners, Griffiths and Farrans worked closely to align our social value goals and deliver long-term impact. We ran regular working groups with the Airport to keep planning coordinated and took part in joint events and initiatives. We also engaged our supply chain partners and local anchor organisations to deliver our social value commitments.”
David Lees, Chief Executive, Bristol Airport said:
“It’s been great to partner with Griffiths Farrans JV on such an important milestone project – delivering one of the region’s largest public transport interchanges. It was imperative they were aligned with our social value goals, which means local communities and our region has benefitted.
“The two-and-a-half year project has provided vital skills and employment for local people and apprentices as well as paid site-based work experience and employment for those new to the industry. We are committed in supporting and developing young people. Engagement with local schools and charities has also been at the heart of the development.”
