Next generation of track work contracts

Main rail installation phase for Borders Railway Pic: Peter Devlin

Network Rail has launched its search for tenders for its next generation of track work contracts, the largest of its kind being undertaken for the upcoming funding period.

This next package of contracts is valued at up to £5Bn, covering ten years of railway track works which commence in 2019. For the first time, the contracts have been split into three areas, allowing for geographically focused alliances between Network Rail, designers and construction suppliers.

These alliances are North Alliance (Scotland Route); Central Alliance (London North West, London North East and East Midland routes); South Alliance; (Anglia, South East, Wessex, Western and Wales routes). They will combine the development, design and delivery of plain line track and switches and crossings, as well as associated infrastructure works for each area.

This step sees plain line and switches & crosses brought together operationally and commercially as a means of delivering infrastructure works more efficiently and effectively for customers. This move is a key component of Network Rail’s Infrastructure Projects CP6 procurement strategy, which aims to promote collaborative arrangements with the supply chain that offer better value for money for devolved route customers.

Steve Featherstone, Network Rail’s director for Track said: “Combining our plain line expertise with that of switches & crossings will bring huge benefits to both our route customers and the wider supply chain. The proven alliance model offers a flexible and cost effective solution with a greater focus on each route’s specific requirements and needs.”

The maintenance and renewal of Britain’s 20,000 miles of track forms part of Network Rail’s Railway Upgrade Plan, which sees £130M invested every single week on improvements for passengers.

Given the large scale and long-term nature of the contracts, prospective bidders will be expected to exhibit their commitment to delivering value through the relentless pursuit of excellence, highly innovative approaches, and a demonstrable track record of success in collaborative environments. Potential bidders are now invited to submit their Expressions of Interest via BravoNR in accordance with the details provided in the Contract Notice. The pre-qualification period for the tender will start in June.

The published Contract Notice Works – 262492-2018 – TED Tenders Electronic Daily contains full details on the tender and information of where suppliers can register their interest.

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