BLP wins Liverpool contract

Berwin Leighton Paisner (BLP) has fought off competition from six firms to advise Liverpool City Council on an application by Merseytravel to construct and operate a tram network in the city centre.

It is likely that a public inquiry will be held next year, and if consent is granted it is hoped that the network will be completed by 2008, when Liverpool becomes the European Capital City of Culture. The project is expected to cost £228m.

Merseytravel applied to the City Council on 16 October. BLP planning partner Trevor Goode, who is leading the deal, said: "The council decided they would go out to tender and appoint external advisers." If it goes ahead, the firm will advise on the Transport & Works Act, planning, property compensation, procurement and construction.

BLP has had a relationship with Liverpool City Council since 2000, when it won a tender to advise on the Paradise Street development.

Bircham Dyson Bell partners Jonathan Bracken and Robbie Owen are advising Merseytravel.