Network Rail has set out plans to appoint suppliers to continue the delivery of track works through the CP8 and CP9 investment periods in a £5bn pipeline notice.
The notice said Network Rail Infrastructure Limited was seeking suitable supplier or suppliers to deliver rail track systems and associated works, with mobilisation expected in mid-2028 and live delivery from mid-2029.
The work will continue the Rail Systems Alliances, which are regional track-focused partnerships between Network Rail and one or more contractors.
The current alliance arrangements are due to end in May and June 2029.
Existing alliance partners include contractors such as Babcock Rail, Balfour Beatty and Colas Rail, with Network Rail acting as the alliance contracting partner.
The scope predominantly covers the design and construction of track works on plain line track and switches and crossings, alongside survey, site investigation, development, design and installation activities.
Associated works include drainage, formation, ballast, sleeper, slab and rail installation, as well as traction power, signalling and minor civil engineering works such as signal and power foundations, level crossings, platform works and cable troughing routes.
Network Rail said the programme would support track renewals and upgrades across designated routes and integrate with signalling and electrification works.
The scope also includes the provision of specialist plant and equipment, along with compliance with Great British Railways transition requirements and sustainability objectives.
Network Rail said the detailed scope and commercial model would be set out in the tender documents.
The procurement will be run using a competitive flexible procedure under the utilities regime, with a tender notice expected in May 2027.
The contracts are expected to run from August 2028 to July 2039, covering an 11-year period.
CP8 itself will run from 1 April 2029 to 31 March 2034, while CP9 will last from 1 April 2034 to 31 March 2039.
Network Rail estimated the total contract value at £5bn excluding VAT, or £6bn including VAT.
The notice did not explain how this value would be allocated between suppliers, which will require clarification at tender stage.
Network Rail said it intended to engage with the market throughout the procurement process and encouraged interested organisations to register on its Bravo sourcing platform.
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Ben Vogel