01 December 2011

EC Harris, a leading international built asset consultancy, has been appointed by the Partnerships Technical Bureau (PTB) as lead technical adviser on a major development project on Failaka Island, a resort in the Arabian Gulf, 20 km to the east of Kuwait City.

The firm will form part of a consortium working alongside several other firms including the WSP Group, Abu Dhabi National Properties, Knight Frank, Pinsent Masons, and Asar Al Ruwayeh and Partners. This consortium will be led by the National Bank of Abu Dhabi.

The PTB is an advisory board that identifies potential public-private partnership (PPP) developmental projects in Kuwait and then works with third-party organisations to develop the business case to encourage private sector firms to invest.

'The Failaka Island project is one example of this approach,' says Andy Rowlands, a spokesman for EC Harris. 'In this instance, the PTB is seeking funding and delivery partners for a mixed-use development scheme that could include hotels, shopping centres, office space, education schemes and high-end health and leisure facilities.'

'The project forms part of a wider framework entitled Vision Kuwait 2035, which is aiming to turn Kuwait into a regional economic powerhouse and a world-class business, leisure and tourism destination,' he adds.

EC Harris will act as the lead technical adviser on the development of the masterplan, delivery strategy and business plan. The commission will span 27 months. However, for the first six months, the firm will focus on strategic research and economic analysis, cost and commercial management, facilities management, operations and maintenance and risk analysis. The consultancy will also provide consulting advice on how to ensure sustainable practices are embedded in the design and construction phases so that the island’s overall carbon footprint is kept to a minimum.

Terry Tommason, EC Harris’ location leader for Qatar, says: 'We are delighted to be working with the National Bank of Abu Dhabi and the PTB on such an exciting project in a rapidly developing market. The consortium and the PTB are taking an innovative approach to ensuring the deliverability of this landmark development. This will truly be a class leading model for the region.'

• Coping with the crisis
• Airport to expand for 50m passengers
• Kuwait projects at a glance
• Diverse and distinctive
• Iconic towers boost Ahmadiah portfolio
• United Tower complete
• DSK Builds on parent firm’s strength
• EC Harris to advise on Failaka Island
• MAK ready for pump station handover

Tags

Regional News UAE Focus Events BIM Focus Legally Bound Makkah & Madinah Bathrooms & Water Heaters Scaffolding & Formwork Environment Protection Facades Transport & Material Handling Tenders Diary Kuwait

Gulf Construction is the undisputed leading trade journal for the building and construction industries of Saudi Arabia and the other Gulf states. The magazine provides editorial coverage on a wide range of topics which are of interest to industry professionals. In addition, regular features highlight technological developments within specific industry fields. Launched 40 years ago, the magazine has established an enviable reputation as an authoritative, respected journal with unmatched coverage of the Gulf region. Gulf Construction is essential reading for anyone with a serious interest in the region’s building and construction industry.