Scope
Description
Network Rail collects infrastructure monitoring data primarily from a fleet of dedicated infrastructure monitoring trains, commonly known as 'the yellow fleet'. It is well recognised that the existing monitoring fleet is outdated, unpredictable, and ready for retirement. Our vision, as discussed in previous engagements, is to procure a comprehensive service that will replace the existing methods of collection, manage operations, and deliver the necessary output data to Network Rail.
Network Rail is agnostic to the method of data collection and believes that, over time, this could evolve into a hybrid approach combining both train and non-train borne collection methods. We are particularly interested in understanding new and innovative non-train borne methods for monitoring railway infrastructure, both now and in the future. This could include, but is not limited to, railroad vehicles, drones, robots, and satellites. Innovation must be at the forefront of any solution we adopt as we aim to transform the way we collect and use data for infrastructure monitoring.
Total value (estimated)
- £1,200,000,000 excluding VAT
- £1,440,000,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 26 February 2027 to 25 February 2035
- Possible extension to 25 February 2043
- 16 years
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 71631470 - Railway-track inspection services
- 50225000 - Railway-track maintenance services
- 34620000 - Rolling stock
- 34621000 - Railway maintenance or service vehicles, and railway freight wagons
- 34611000 - Locomotives
- 50220000 - Repair, maintenance and associated services related to railways and other equipment
- 72222300 - Information technology services
- 71700000 - Monitoring and control services
- 35613000 - Unmanned aerial vehicles
- 71355000 - Surveying services
- 72228000 - Hardware integration consultancy services
- 72225000 - System quality assurance assessment and review services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
16 June 2025
Engagement process description
A briefing document will be available on Network Rail's Bravo Portal from the date of release of the notice.
1. Follow the link: https://networkrail.bravosolution.co.uk/web/login.html
2. From the welcome screen, access the "View Current Opportunities" link and select "IM Programme Core Services". No login is required.
3. Click on the attachment "Preliminary Market Engagement Brief May 2025".
A briefing call will be held on 9th May 2025. Please refer to the briefing document for further details. Following this call, we intend to release key documents to provide clarity on the exact scope of this procurement, along with a questionnaire to allow you to provide feedback.
Participation
Particular suitability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
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
Region: UKI45 - Lambeth
Organisation type: Public authority - central government