Project Planning and Design
With substantial funding and comprehensive plans already in place, the initial focus was on critical infrastructure. The project included the development of roads infrastructure, the establishment of West Dunbartonshire Council’s offices at Aurora House, and the construction of a new £23.5 million leisure centre, which opened in 2017. Additionally, contracts were secured for quay wall strengthening, and the iconic Titan Crane was gifted to the local community.
A key highlight of the project is the approval of an innovative district heating network, set to be the largest of its kind in Scotland. This initiative promises to deliver significant socio-economic change through a unique public/private partnership between Clydeside Regeneration Limited and West Dunbartonshire Council. The Council is co-funding the essential initial infrastructure and will participate in future land receipts.
Construction Phase
The construction phase involved the design and execution of various civil engineering, marine, and building works. MFMac provided specialist non-contentious construction legal services, including advising on contracts and associated construction-related legal agreements, such as the Site Clearance and Remediation Contract, Marine Works Contract, and Road Works Contract. They also advised on contracts for the installation of the District Heating system pipework and the design and construction of the District Heating energy centre building. Additionally, they ensured compliance with Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) procurement rules and assisted with the necessary notices. MFMac provided advice on complying with EU state aid rules to avoid voiding the funding and necessitating repayment. They supported the client in processing planning applications and advised on environmental matters associated with the site. Furthermore, they assisted with joint venture arrangements through setting up corporate vehicles and advised on the tax implications of the development proposals. Lastly, they provided advice on the insurance aspects of the infrastructure development agreement.
Post-Construction and Impact
The Queens Quay Regeneration project is one of the largest current regeneration projects in Scotland. It promises to deliver significant socio-economic change through the creation of new housing, retail, and health facilities. The innovative district heating network will provide a sustainable energy solution for the community. The project has already seen the successful completion of several key infrastructure elements, and the ongoing development continues to transform Clydebank into a thriving business and living quarter.
