AECOM to steer Blue Bell Hill traffic improvement scheme in new role on Kent framework

LONDON (July 22, 2020) – AECOM, the world’s premier infrastructure firm, is to spearhead a traffic scheme to alleviate congestion and improve safety for local communities as part of its role on a new professional services framework with Kent County Council (KCC).

AECOM has been appointed to KCC’s latest Highways and Transportation professional services framework and will deliver the first major project procured via the framework: the development of the Outline Business Case for the £140m improvement scheme A229 at Blue Bell Hill.

Traffic on Blue Bell Hill can be heavily congested at peak times. AECOM will deliver the broad design for a new road scheme which will address the congestion issues, whilst also increasing safety by reducing the number of collisions currently recorded within the interchange.

The main services will include design, asset management, transport planning, strategic planning, environment, surveys and investigations and commercial services.

The value of the Framework is estimated to be circa £25m over the term and will run for three years with an option for the council to extend for an additional year. Medway Council and KCC Districts can also access AECOM’s services via the Framework.

AECOM framework director Richard Carpenter said: “We are extremely pleased to be working with such a forward-thinking local authority as Kent County Council. Tackling traffic bottlenecks and improving safety at Blue Bell Hill will make a huge difference to communities in Kent. We are proud to bring our transportation expertise and track record to shape a solution which will leave a lasting beneficial legacy for those who live and travel around Blue Bell Hill.”

The framework is a multi-supplier, multi-disciplinary contract for professional services. Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport Michael Payne said: “This is good news for Kent. Through this new contract we can get access to the best technical advice and innovation in the industry at very competitive rates whilst helping local business.”

ENDS