BAM PPP wins PPP toll road in Ireland

Bunnik, Netherlands, 12 January 2006 – Celtic Roads Group, comprising BAM PPP, Dragados and NTR, has been appointed preferred bidder by the National Roads Authority (NRA) for the N25 Waterford Bypass in the south of Ireland.

This PPP transaction includes the design and construction of 23 kilometres of new dual carriageway, 23 bridges (including a 475 meter long cable stayed bridge crossing the river Suir) and realignment of 15 kilometres of existing roads. The value of construction work is approximately €280 million. Construction activities are expected to start mid 2006 immediately following financial close. The Bypass is scheduled to be operational in 2009.

The 30-year concession provides for operational services such as all routine maintenance, emergency response, lifecycle replacement and collection of tolls.

BAM PPP has a one third share in the concession company. The construction will be undertaken by a joint venture in which BAM’s Irish operating company Ascon has a 50 per cent interest.

In September 2005 Celtic Roads Group completed the construction of the Dundalk Western Bypass, a section of the M1 motorway north of Dublin. This was the first PPP road scheme to open in Ireland, becoming operational five months ahead of schedule. The PPP contract included the design, construction, financing, operation and maintenance of 11 kilometres new highway, with a construction value of approximately €120 million, together with the operation and maintenance of 42 kilometres of existing motorway, for a period of 30 years.

Further information: Arno C. Pronk, + 31 (0)30 659 86 21.