Developments made on Falkland Islands Port facility project

Following the sitting of an extraordinary Executive Council (ExCo) on Friday 16 February and the sitting of ExCo on Tuesday 27 February, two papers have been approved to progress replacement of Stanley port facility, FIPASS.

The first paper approved has allowed for negotiations to begin with a preferred development partner for replacement of the marine-side elements of the new port facility. In July 2023 the tender for the marine-side works was launched, excluding the access road and causeway. Two tenders were received and, following the recommendation from the Tender Board to the Project Board the preferred company, Harland and Wolff was proposed to ExCo.

ExCo’s approval means that authorised government officers can begin to agree the contract terms and programme of works with Harland and Wolff. This step takes place before formal award of contract, allowing FIG to ensure that the design, programme and costs are acceptable before ExCo is asked to approve a contract for delivery. Subject to final contract pricing and commercial negotiations, this element of the project is likely to cost between £100-£120 million.

Harland and Wolff built the six linked barges which make up the existing port facility over forty years ago, which demonstrates an important historical relationship with the Falkland Islands.

The approval of the second paper enables the launch of invitation to tender for the access road and causeway. The location of the road and causeway will be in the previously identified location to the west of the current causeway, and will be constructed utilising existing designs and studies undertaken by BAM during the previous design phase of the port facility project. Before the tender is launched, the project team will refine the design to accommodate the marine-side specification, meaning the issuing of the tender will not be immediate.

Both papers support the requirement to have a replacement structure to FIPASS by the end of 2027, when FIPASS will meet the end of its functional life. The new facility will also be a floating dock system and in the same location as FIPASS. The requirements for the new facility were established in consultation with the industries that rely on the port.

Portfolio Holder for Commercial Services, MLA Mark Pollard said: “The port, along with the power station, is right at the top of our priority list as an Assembly. It is vital to the future of our economy. We look forward to addressing this long-standing issue, working with Harland and Wolff, as well as the successful tenderer for the access road and causeway.”

Harland & Wolff Chief Executive Officer, John Wood, said: “”We are proud to have been chosen as the preferred bidder for the FIPASS replacement, marking another significant achievement in our expanding non-defence portfolio. This project not only highlights our enduring partnership with the Falkland Islands Government but also reinforces Harland & Wolff’s reputation as a trusted provider for large and complex marine engineering projects.

“With our history of delivering the original FIPASS, we bring a wealth of experience combined with the latest in manufacturing innovation to deliver a modern, efficient, and sustainable port system.

“This project not only signifies a step forward for the Falkland Islands but also for Harland & Wolff as we continue to build on our legacy of excellence and innovation.”

Although both ExCo papers are fully redacted as they are commercially confidential, any local business or individual who would like to know more about the invitation to tender for the access road and causeway is invited to contact the Port Project Team directly on port.questions(at)sec.gov.fk or +500 27040.

The access road and causeway tender will be launched on Proactis, FIG’s e-procurement system, in due course, and a public notice of the tender launch will be issued.