Scope
Description
The Rail Systems Alliances are Track Work contracts formed as partnerships between Network Rail and one or more suppliers. The scope predominantly includes the design and construction of track works on plain line track and switches and crossings (points). Associated work covers survey, site investigation, development, design, and installation works, including drainage, formation, ballast, sleeper, slab, and rail works, along with associated traction power, signalling, and minor civil engineering works such as signal/traction power foundations, level crossings, platform works, and cable troughing routes. The current alliance partnerships are due to end in May and June 2029.
Network Rail is seeking to appoint suitable supplier(s) to continue the delivery of Rail Systems and associated work for the Control Period (CP) 8 and 9 programmes, the estimated start date for mobilisation is mid 2028, with go live in mid 2029.
The current scope includes:
• Track renewals and upgrades across designated routes
• Integration with signalling and electrification works
• Provision of specialist plant and equipment
• Compliance with GBR transition requirements and sustainability objectives
The detailed scope and commercial model will be published within the tender documents.
Total value (estimated)
- £5,000,000,000 excluding VAT
- £6,000,000,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 August 2028 to 31 July 2039
- 11 years
Main procurement category
Works
CPV classifications
- 45234000 - Construction work for railways and cable transport systems
- 45234100 - Railway construction works
- 71311230 - Railway engineering services
- 71311100 - Civil engineering support services
- 50225000 - Railway-track maintenance services
- 71320000 - Engineering design services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
31 January 2027
Engagement process description
Network Rail will be holding a Market Engagement Meeting with potential suppliers in advance of this procurement activity. We will be holding this as an online event on a date and time to be confirmed. We will provide suppliers with an overview of the procurement activity and our key requirements, challenges, and priorities, followed by a Q&A session. At this stage our strategy and the precise scope is yet to be determined, however we would welcome any views or insights that you may have. If you would like to attend this session please could you follow the link to complete the form and register your interest, no later than Friday 20th February: https://forms.office.com/e/LxwgaqRZZb We will also be holding separate individual supplier meetings after this session to help us further understand the supply market and develop our strategy. These are likely to be held remotely over Microsoft Teams and will take place at a mutually convenient time. You can also register your interest in these sessions by completing the form. We look forward to meeting you soon to discuss this procurement activity further.
Participation
Particular suitability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
4 May 2027
Procedure
Special regime
Utilities
Contracting authority
NETWORK RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE LIMITED
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PNZN-9524-VCQJ
Waterloo General Office
London
SE1 8SW
United Kingdom
Contact name: Philip Hunt
Email: mwesourcing@networkrail.co.uk
Website: https://www.networkrail.co.uk/
Region: UKI45 - Lambeth
Organisation type: Public authority - central government