Scope
Description
South Western Railway (SWR) will be seeking information from the market regarding Train Planning Systems capable of supporting the creation, editing, integration, and validation of train schedules, rolling stock diagrams, and traincrew diagrams. The requirement covers systems that provide intuitive planning interfaces, comprehensive visualisation tools, and the ability to manage date‑bound timetable datasets across long‑term, short‑term, and very short‑term planning horizons.
The scope includes solutions that can integrate securely and efficiently with Network Rail systems and SWR's operational, rostering, optimisation, and business platforms, using industry‑standard data formats and APIs. Suppliers are also invited to provide information on systems that support automated validation of rolling stock and traincrew diagrams, including checks against operational rules, formation requirements, mileage constraints, route and traction knowledge, and depot‑specific standards.
SWR is additionally seeking insight into system capabilities for secure data exchange, auditability, and reporting, as well as indicative commercial models associated with delivering these functionalities.
Contract dates (estimated)
- 4 January 2027 to 3 January 2030
- 3 years
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 48100000 - Industry specific software package
- 72230000 - Custom software development services
- 72260000 - Software-related services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
19 February 2026
Engagement process description
South Western Railway (SWR) will undertake preliminary market engagement to gather information from suppliers capable of providing a modern Train Planning System. The scope of this engagement covers system capabilities including schedule creation, rolling stock and traincrew diagramming, user interface design, system integration, secure data exchange, automated validation, and associated commercial models.
The engagement will be conducted remotely through the publication of a Request for Information (RFI). The RFI will be published on 19 January on Find a Tender and will remain open for responses until 19 February, providing a one month window for suppliers to review the materials and submit their responses. No in‑person events are currently planned; however, should SWR schedule any virtual briefings or supplier sessions, details will be shared with suppliers who have expressed interest.
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
1 April 2026
Contracting authority
SOUTH WESTERN RAILWAY LIMITED
- Companies House: 03266760
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PQHL-7495-VCQT
South Bank Central 4th Floor, 30 Stamford Street,
London
SE1 9LQ
United Kingdom
Region: UKI44 - Lewisham and Southwark
Organisation type: Public undertaking (commercial organisation subject to public authority oversight)