Agreement, the largest of its type in construction, will see contractor rapidly adopting BIM technology

Balfour Beatty and 3D software specialist Autodesk today announced a groundbreaking £7.5m deal on BIM, at the EcoBUIld conference.

The agreement – the largest and most far reaching so far struck in construction and infrastructure – will rapidly expand the contactor’s adoption of BIM technology, which will become compulsory on UK public building projects from 2016.”

Autodesk will provide “significant training, support and strategic consultancy” as well as BIM software to Balfour Beatty.

Balfour Beatty chief executive Ian Tyler said: “Innovation and efficiency are at the heart of our strategy and this agreement sets Balfour Beatty apart from its competitors.

“It extends across all of our capabilities and markets, from infrastructure investment and professional services to construction and on-going built asset management.

“We will be able to provide our clients with a wealth of new information about the infrastructure we are building and managing on their behalf.”

The contractor has already used Autodesk BIM on a number of high profile projects including the San Francisco Bay Bridge, the widening of the M25 outside London, and design and construction for the replacement of Heathrow Terminal 2 – a move it credits with helping complete work ahead of schedule.

Roland Zelles, vice president of worldwide sales for Autodesk Architecture Engineering and Construction, said: “Moving to BIM is about more than implementing new technology – to fully realize its benefits requires a process change. 

“Through this comprehensive agreement, Balfour Beatty is demonstrating their commitment to this change and Autodesk is excited to work with them and help extend the value of BIM to their clients around the world.”