Final multi-million-pound contracts awarded in Scotland and North East

Loch Ailort

A renewals and enhancements framework valued at £320 million for Scotland and North East (SNE) has been awarded to BAM Nuttall Ltd.

The framework will complete a wide range of projects including replacing and refurbishing structures across the route and delivering station improvements.

In addition, two Geotech frameworks worth a combined £147 million have been awarded to Story Contracting (London North East) and QTS (Scotland) as part of the procurement process. At the end of 2018, Story Contracting was awarded a contract covering renewals and enhancements valued at around £135 million.

Alan McLeish, QTS Managing Director, said: “We are exceptionally proud of the collaborative work QTS has carried out during the last control period, with some outstanding geotechnical projects delivered across Scotland. It is a testament to the hard work of our team during the CP5 contract, and the strong relationship that we have built with Network Rail, that has allowed us to be successful in this CP6 tender process.

“Our expertise and commitment to finding further efficiencies for Network Rail stands us in excellent stead to continue providing a high standard of work over the next five years.”

The latest contract awards complete the procurement activity for Scotland and North East, which is anticipated to hold one of the largest work banks for the coming five-year funding period.

Kris Kinnear, Interim Regional Director for SNE, said: “Work to renew our infrastructure is increasingly important to improve reliability for our passengers, and making sure we have the right suppliers to deliver those improvements is paramount. We look forward to working closely with our supply chain to build on the progress that has already been made and ultimately, build a better railway for our customers.”

Scotland and North East have awarded five-year contracts, with an option of two-year extensions on the Geotech framework.

Kris added: “Significant five-year contracts not only benefit our key supply chain partners, but the thousands of companies who work for them too, providing them with the security they need to invest in their people, innovation and value for money.”

Jason Butterworth, Story Contracting Chief Executive, said: “We are thrilled with the news of another win for Network Rail which again reinforces our reputation for delivering quality projects safely, on time and to budget. This contract will mean we can employ even more professionals across the area and also entice new talent into the industry – including investment in the future with our graduate and apprentice programmes. It will also mean we can invest into local communities through our Corporate Social Responsibility programme which will deliver sustainable projects for local organisations and charities.”

Huw Jones, BAM Nuttall Rail Director, said: “BAM Nuttall is proud to be awarded this framework, which gives us the opportunity to strengthen our partnership with Network Rail and our fellow CP6 framework contractors. We look forward to establishing an integrated ‘One Team’ approach with our partners to deliver exceptional business and safety performance, driving sustainable growth across Scotland and LNE, whilst enhancing passenger experience and the communities where we work.”