Carillion HS2 staff taken on by joint venture partners

The High Speed 2 Phase 1 joint venture between Carillion, Eiffage and Kier will continue without the failed company, HS2 has confirmed.

And in a further development aimed at reassuring Carillion staff, Kier and Eiffage have offered all 51 Carillion staff on lots C2 and C3 of the contract the opportunity to join them, with continuous service maintained.

“The joint venture has provided HS2 Ltd with assurances that in the event of any member of the group being unable to deliver on its responsibilities, the remaining members - now Eiffage and Kier - would fill the gap. HS2 Ltd does not hold a direct contract with Carillion,” the company said.

“We are continuing to discuss with Kier and Eiffage the implementation of contingency plans. Work will continue as planned with no unnecessary or additional exposure to the taxpayer.”

Secretary of State for Transport Chris Grayling said: “This announcement demonstrates the strength and purpose of the joint venture contracts agreed on HS2 works and the smart motorways programme. These have enabled Kier and Eiffage to step in as planned and guarantee continued employment, apprenticeships and the seamless delivery of these vital projects.”

HS2 Chief Executive Mark Thurston added: “We welcome this decision by the remaining JV partners. Through this difficult time the team has continued to deliver and we’re grateful for their ongoing hard work and dedication.

“No time delays or costs implication have come about as a result of the events of this week, underlining the strength of the joint venture approach taken by High Speed 2 in procuring its partners.”