Roger Bullivant has secured a key role in the construction of the new HMP Glasgow, delivering a high-volume piling solution for the project that will replace Scotland’s largest prison, the 143-year-old HMP Barlinnie.
Appointed by Kier Construction, Roger Bullivant will construct foundations for the new £998M prison, which will accommodate up to 1,344 inmates and is targeted for completion by 2028.
The ground engineering subcontractor has been engaged on the project since summer 2022 to help develop a tailored piled foundation scheme for the challenging brownfield site near Glasgow city centre.
It has been working closely with main contractor Kier and project engineer Curtins to develop a robust, cost-effective solution for the site’s complex ground conditions. The site required remediation before main construction works could start, as it once housed a gasworks.
Following successful preliminary testing earlier this year, Roger Bullivant executed an advanced works package comprising nearly 700 driven precast concrete piles between March and April 2025.
The main piling works, involving approximately 4,000 additional piles, are now ongoing.
At peak construction, the site will have up to four piling rigs operating simultaneously, underscoring the logistical and engineering complexity of the project.
In a recent release, the company said: “The piles, ranging in depth from 6-16m, were selected for their versatility, speed of installation and sustainability benefits. Manufactured off-site at [our] headquarters, precast piles reduce waste, minimise site disruption and offer a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional cast-in-situ methods. Their use on this project supports both programme efficiency and environmental responsibility, key priorities for both [us] and Kier.”
Roger Bullivant’s Scotland area manager, Gavin Hay, added: “This is a flagship project for the business and demonstrates the value of early contractor involvement. Our extensive experience in Scotland, combined with thorough testing and close collaboration with Kier, has enabled us to deliver a robust and cost-effective foundation solution for one of the most significant public sector developments in recent years.”