Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has launched a procurement process for a major infrastructure contract worth up to GBP 1.6 billion, aimed at supporting the long-term maintenance and expansion of Metrolink, the UK’s largest light rail network, while improving accessibility at rail stations across the city-region.
The new contract, which could run for up to 12 years from 2027, will support Metrolink’s asset renewals programme, including the replacement of key infrastructure such as track, overhead lines, and power distribution systems.
In addition to core renewal works, the agreement may also encompass a broader scope of enhancements. These could include upgrades to existing Metrolink stops, the construction of new stops and line extensions, infrastructure for next-generation vehicles, improvements under the Department for Transport’s Access for All programme, and the development of Travel Hubs to support seamless, multimodal journeys.
Market engagement underway
TfGM has now entered the initial market engagement phase, during which interested suppliers are invited to provide feedback on the proposed scope and delivery approach. The authority is seeking views on how best to manage the scale, complexity, and variety of the planned works.
Danny Vaughan, Chief Network Officer at TfGM, said:
“This is a significant opportunity for suppliers to help shape how we deliver the next generation of Metrolink and rail accessibility infrastructure across Greater Manchester. We’re looking for innovative, efficient and collaborative approaches that will support our ambitions for a world-class, integrated Bee Network. We encourage all interested parties to engage with us through this process.”
The market consultation will also examine delivery models such as partner-led arrangements and the bundling of multiple workstreams into a single contract to maximise efficiency and minimise disruption.
Strategic investment in the Bee Network
The procurement takes place against the backdrop of a wider transformation across Greater Manchester, with ongoing investment in transport, housing, and innovation designed to drive inclusive economic growth and improve quality of life across all ten boroughs.
Metrolink plays a central role in the Bee Network, Greater Manchester’s plan for an integrated, accessible and sustainable transport system that connects people to jobs, education and opportunity. Enhancing the light rail system and delivering more accessible rail infrastructure aligns with the Greater Manchester Strategy and its goal of building a global city-region.
TfGM is particularly interested in understanding suppliers’ capacity to deliver large-scale infrastructure within an evolving urban environment, as well as their approaches to innovation, partnership working, and reducing construction-related disruption for passengers and communities.
Next steps in the procurement process
The Preliminary Market Engagement (PME) and Planned Procurement Notice (PPN) were published on 28 July 2025 via the Central Digital Platform and ProContract. Interested parties can access full documentation and register to participate.
Following the initial questionnaire phase, up to 10 suppliers will be selected for one-to-one workshops to explore their feedback in greater depth. These sessions will help inform the final structure of the contract and ensure that TfGM’s delivery approach is aligned with industry capacity, best practice, and market expectations.
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