BIM roll-out for public projects hits three-month delay

Efforts to roll out Building Information Modelling across all public projects have hit an obstacle after a key government report on the effectiveness of the software has been met with a three-month delay.

An independent report into the effectiveness of BIM on a number of pilot projects was submitted to the Construction Clients’ Group in March and the government was expected to produce its response that same month.

However, sources close to the government said that it was put on hold because of local government elections in May.

Paul Morrell, the chief construction advisor, subsequently confirmed to Building that the government response would be released in June.

It is widely believed the government will press for a timed programme of transformation to BIM on all publicly-funded procurement. More details are also expected on the training and support required for the industry in adapting to BIM.

BIM integrates the supply chain on a project with the aim of reducing costs and adding long-term value to the development and management of buildings. In practice every party on a project shares the same 3D CAD model to design, construct and operate a building.