Scope
Description
Northern Trains Limited (NTL) intends to go to market for the procurement of Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) services for tanks, bunds, separators, and associated containment systems. This contract forms part of NTL's commitment to best practice in asset maintenance and environmental protection.
NTL requires a supplier to deliver PPM services for a five-year term, covering Train Care Centres across the network.
The scope includes:
• Oil-Water Separators: 6-monthly servicing in accordance with BS EN 858.
• Tanks: Annual compliance inspections in line with OFTEC and SFG20 standards.
• Bunds: Annual inspections following CIRIA 736 guidance.
• Pipework: Thickness testing in accordance with API 570.
This requirement ensures NTL meets its maintenance obligations under Train Care Centre leases and maintains the integrity of primary, secondary, and tertiary containment for substances hazardous to the environment.
Suppliers will be expected to apply Best Industry Practice, alongside their expertise and experience, to meet the following key objectives:
• Deliver high-quality, effective services that demonstrate value for money.
• Maintain assets in compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements, manufacturer guidance, and industry standards to ensure maximum longevity.
• Support NTL's commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation, including digital monitoring or predictive maintenance solutions where possible.
We look forward to building a productive and successful relationship with our selected Supplier following the conclusion of this process.
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 May 2026 to 31 March 2031
- 4 years, 11 months
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 44611000 - Tanks
- 50000000 - Repair and maintenance services
Contract locations
- UKC - North East (England)
- UKD - North West (England)
- UKE - Yorkshire and the Humber
Engagement
Engagement deadline
5 January 2026
Engagement process description
Northern Trains Limited (NTL) is preparing to procure a Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) contract and is seeking early market engagement with interested suppliers.
NTL is inviting market feedback to help shape the upcoming tender process. We welcome input on key considerations and any expectations or suggestions suppliers would like us to take into account. As a suggestion, this might cover the following:
• Specification
• Key Performance Indicators / Service Level Agreements
• Pricing Structure
• Contract Term
• Commercial Terms
Your insights will help us ensure the final tender reflects best practice and delivers value for money.
It is anticipated that the formal tender process will commence in January 2026. We welcome input from suppliers during this engagement phase.
Market engagement will be conducted via email only, there will be no virtual or in-person sessions. To express your interest in this opportunity and provide any feedback, please email:
Sarah Nixon, Procurement Manager (sarah.nixon@northernrailway.co.uk)
Participation in this preliminary market engagement exercise is entirely voluntary. Suppliers who do not take part will not be excluded from the subsequent procurement process.
Please note:
• Engagement will not confer any advantage or preferential treatment in any future tender.
• This exercise is not an indication of supplier selection and does not guarantee future work or contract award.
The purpose of this exercise is solely to gather market insight and feedback to inform NTL's procurement strategy.
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Procedure
Special regime
Utilities
Contracting authority
NORTHERN TRAINS LIMITED
- Companies House: 03076444
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PZCJ-2164-HJQZ
George Stephenson House
York
YO1 6JT
United Kingdom
Region: UKE21 - York
Organisation type: Public authority - central government