We’re thrilled to announce that the revitalisation of Folkestone’s iconic Leas Lift is underway. The scheme has been awarded to Apex Contractors, with work set to begin on-site in Q1 2025. This historic funicular railway, a cherished part of the town’s heritage, will be restored to its former glory while ensuring it meets modern standards for safety and accessibility. The project marks an exciting step forward in preserving Folkestone’s cultural legacy for generations to come. Our involvement has been crucial in steering the project toward a successful outcome.
Securing Funding for Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) Support
Understanding the importance of a solid financial strategy, b&m developed a comprehensive cost planning and forecasting process through the design stages and for the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) bid. Due to the complex and potentially high-risk nature of the Leas Lift project, securing HLF confidence in the cost plan was no small feat. HLF’s support not only brought critical funding but also positioned the project as one worthy of substantial public and private investment. b&m’s expertise in creating an accurate, transparent cost projection was pivotal, fostering a sense of assurance in HLF’s evaluation of the scheme’s feasibility.
Guiding the Folkestone Leas Lift Company Through the Tender Process
In addition to securing funding, b&m also played an instrumental role in navigating the Folkestone Leas Lift Company CIO through the commercial intricacies of the tender process. By advising on best practices, managing expectations, and ensuring compliance with industry standards, b&m facilitated the smooth selection of a contractor who met both technical and financial criteria. This successful contractor appointment set the project up for operational efficiency and established clear benchmarks for quality and timeliness, both essential for the Leas Lift’s successful restoration.
Mitigating Client Risk in a Complex Restoration Environment
The Leas Lift site presents unique challenges, not least of which are the complexities associated with working on a historically significant structure. b&m’s strategic approach to reducing the client’s risk of exposure focused on thorough negotiations with the appointed contractor, ensuring that the financial and operational terms were transparent, fair, and structured to mitigate unforeseen issues. Through these negotiations, b&m reduced the potential for cost overruns and managed the risks associated with heritage conservation work in a delicate environment.
Ongoing Support for Commercial and Community Engagement
Looking ahead, b&m will continue to support the Folkestone Leas Lift Company in making informed commercial decisions, ensuring both cost-effectiveness and adherence to the project’s long-term vision. Additionally, b&m’s commitment to community engagement will foster stronger ties with Folkestone’s residents and stakeholders, creating a shared sense of ownership and pride in the restored Leas Lift. By doing so, b&m is helping ensure that this heritage project not only preserves a key piece of history but also generates local support, enriching Folkestone’s cultural landscape.
CGIs courtesy of Acme.
