John Laing selected preferred bidder for the new generation rollingstock project in Queensland, Australia

John Laing, the specialist investor and manager of infrastructure assets, has been selected Preferred Bidder, as part of a consortium led by Bombardier Transportation, a global leader in rail technology, to deliver the New Generation Rollingstock (NGR) project in Queensland, Australia. The appointment, which was made by the Queensland Government, further enhances John Laing’s strategy of growing its portfolio of investments in the Asia Pacific market.

The project involves the provision and maintenance of 75 new six-car trains for a duration of 30 years for the South East Queensland suburban passenger rail network, and includes the construction and maintenance of a depot facility. The Department of Transport and Main Roads is delivering the project in partnership with Projects Queensland. Queensland Rail is providing technical expertise to integrate the new trains with the existing network.

The contract is expected to reach financial close shortly, with testing of the first completed train expected to commence approximately two years from contract award.

Anthony Phillips, John Laing’s Head of Primary Investments, Asia Pacific, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been chosen by the State of Queensland to make this significant investment in South East Queensland Rail Services. Alongside our partners within the Bombardier consortium, we are looking forward to delivering NGR. Since establishing a strong local presence in Sydney and Melbourne in 2011, John Laing’s primary objective continues to be to distinguish John Laing as the investment partner of choice for our clients and consortium partners alike. This milestone builds upon our earlier success in the key growth regional markets of Australia and New Zealand.”