Whilst PPP projects in the German road sector have proven to provide a steady pipeline in recent years, the partnership approach is seen rather critical by the public eye.

Recent court cases regarding operational PPP motorway projects (A8, A1 A-Model projects) as well as projects at tender stage are causing uncertainty with developers and investors – and the newly created public authority for the German motorway network (Autobahn GmbH), who will be in charge of future PPP tenders, is causing additional “unknowns” in a so far stable market.

Discussion Points:

– Can Maintenance PPPs be a suitable alternative creating an opportunity for a new PPP pipeline?
– What are the main aspects to focus on and the requirements the different stakeholders would like to see fulfilled to ensure a wide market interest and make it a healthy project pipeline?
– What are the major challenges in maintenance PPPs with regards to technical due diligence as well as formal risk allocation between public sector and private partner?
– What lessons can be learned from existing Maintenance PPPs in other countries, like the UK?
– Will the partnership approach for urgently required Maintenance projects in the road sector be able to create a more positive momentum in public opinion?
– Last but not least, is the COVID-19 pandemic expected to have an effect on the PPP pipeline going forward?

Speakers:

Andreas Avril, Arup (Moderator)
Dessislava Strothmann, Autobahn GmbH (Keynote speaker)
Mauro Pensa, MUFG
Dirk Trautmann, Norton Rose Fulbright LLP
Joachim von Lukowicz, Hochtief PPP Solutions