Scope
Description
Avanti West Coast's current train planning system is approaching end-of-contract. This project seeks to procure and implement a modern, future-proofed train planning solution that ensures continuity of service delivery, operational safety, and readiness for HS2 operations. The new system will integrate seamlessly with rostering and control platforms, enabling incremental enhancements aligned with the Digital Railway strategy.
First are seeking bidders who can support delivery of the following objectives:
• Deliver a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) replacement for a train planning solution by February 2028.
• Ensure integration with rostering and control systems to streamline operational workflows.
• Enable future development roadmaps for automation, analytics, and AI-driven decision-making.
• Have a full set of functionally rich software services, out of the box, to meet the requirements detailed in the ITT.
• Have robust and proven technologies, built using modern services, software and platforms.
• Can provide a flexible and scalable solution which can continue to operate seamlessly during peaks in demand for services.
• Provide examples of similar successful implementations to at least this scale, within the UK rail sector.
• Can demonstrate a high-level quality of service and change management delivery for similar services provided to other customers.
Total value (estimated)
- £1,443,154 excluding VAT
- £1,731,784 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 25 September 2026 to 24 September 2031
- Possible extension to 24 September 2033
- 7 years
Description of possible extension:
A five-year contract will be awarded with the option to extend for a maximum of two years, in one-year increments.
Options
The right to additional purchases while the contract is valid.
This will be additional peripheral software & services that may arise from the provision of the main train planning services.
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 48140000 - Railway traffic control software package
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Submission
Enquiry deadline
5 January 2026, 3:00pm
Submission type
Requests to participate
Deadline for requests to participate
19 January 2026, 3:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
2 July 2026
Award criteria
| Name | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| ITN Stage: Quality | Quality | 60% |
| ITN Stage: Price | Price | 35% |
| ITN Stage: Contract Terms | Quality | 5% |
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Competitive flexible procedure
Special regime
Utilities
Competitive flexible procedure description
Suppliers are invited to Express an Interest (EOI), Sign an mutual Non Disclosure Agreement (NDA) and complete a
Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ).
The Procurement is made up of one Lot. The four top scoring Suppliers at PQQ stage will be invited to participate in the Invitation to Negotiate stage (ITN).
All compliant submissions at ITN stage will be fully evaluated and contracts awarded to the Most Advantageous Tenderer, in line with the evaluation criteria detailed.
Documents
Associated tender documents
https://s2c-uk62.waxdigital.com/FirstGroupPlc/DisplayModules/TradeModules/Negotiations/Opportunities/ViewOpportunityEvent.aspx?EventID=4990&Culture=en-GB
Contracting authority
FIRST RAIL HOLDINGS LIMITED
- Companies House: 05154485
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PPVJ-1479-GGLX
8th Floor The Point
London
W2 1AF
United Kingdom
Email: michael.anderson@firstrail.com
Website: http://www.firstgroupplc.com
Region: UKI32 - Westminster
Organisation type: Private utility