The construction contractor that will deliver Chester’s new bus interchange at Gorse Stacks has been revealed.

Following a rigorous procurement process, Cheshire West and Chester Council has named John Graham Construction as its preferred bidder to take the £13.5m project forward.

The company will now work alongside scheme architects Austin Smith Lord, transport engineering advisers Mott MacDonald and council officers to prepare detailed implementation plans. Work is expected to begin in mid-September.

The new facility is due to open in early 2017, enabling the closure of the existing bus interchange at Princess Street and paving the way for work to commence on the £300m Northgate development.

Artists impressions of the new bus interchange in Chester
Artists impressions of the new bus interchange in Chester

Cllr Brian Clarke, cabinet member for economic development and infrastructure, said: “We look forward to working in partnership with John Graham Construction to deliver a first class, modern transport facility that will improve the experience of bus users and encourage more people to take advantage of public transport.

“The new interchange at Gorse Stacks will bring about a major improvement in the quality of Chester’s offer for residents and visitors alike.”

Regional director of John Graham Construction Gary Hughes said: “We are delighted to have been appointed as the council’s construction partner and look forward to delivering a high quality bus interchange for the city of Chester.”

Details will shortly be confirmed of the closure of Gorse Stacks car park to allow enabling works on utility diversions to commence ahead of construction.

The loss of the 168 short-stay parking spaces at Gorse Stacks will be more than offset by the new council-owned underground car park at Delamere Street which provides 351 spaces.

The bus interchange and associated public realm work improvements around Gorse Stacks are being financially supported by the Government’s local growth fund which is administered by the Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership.

Council leader Samantha Dixon said: “The council will continue to work with local residents and traders to make sure that the development of the bus interchange is of the most benefit to them. It’s important that information is shared widely so that everyone knows what’s going on.”