Transport operators prepare bids for Crossrail services

Date: 29/4/2013

The competition to run London's Crossrail services when the route becomes operational in 2015 is set to get underway, with at least six companies expected to bid for the eight-year contract. 

UK-listed bodies including FirstGroup and National Express are thought to be preparing to express their interest, along with the likes of Hong Kong-listed MTR, France's RATP and others such as Arriva and Abellio.  

The range of bidders that are expected to compete for the Crossrail contract has been welcomed by (TfL) Transport for London's Crossrail Operations Director Howard Smith, who told the Financial Times it is "encouraging" to see operators are eager to enter the race. 

"Crossrail is an essential part of the country's economic infrastructure, generating thousands of jobs and growth across the UK," he added.

And according to one senior rail executive, Crossrail has become a priority for a number of firms because of the lack of rail opportunities that will be available in the coming years. 

Indeed, following the debacle surrounding last year's West Coast mainline scheme, the Government has since moved to release a revised franchise timetable that will see competition for most contracts postponed until after 2015. 

When the rail link eventually becomes fully operational, trains will run from Maidenhead in the west of London to Shenfield in the east of the capital, with 24 services an hour running between Whitechapel and Paddington during peak times. 

The trains that will support the route are based on existing technology that has been adapted to meet the performance needs of the Crossrail network, with an emphasis on capacity and accessibility. 

Overall, the project incorporates and combines information developed from over 25 main design contracts, 30 advanced work contracts and over 60 logistics and main works construction contracts. 

A Community Investment Programme has also formed a key part of the Crossrail initiative, with a focus on creating local employment opportunities and supporting education in local communities throughout the capital. 

Posted by Sarah Bailey 

Transport Research News and Vehicle Safety News