The £300 million framework, which spans five years with potential for a three-year extension, will oversee multi-disciplinary design and development services, including the Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) portfolio, the Integrated Rail Plan and other enhancement projects across the Eastern region. These projects will better connect people, businesses and communities and galvanise economic growth.
Arup and SYSTRA collectively bring a wealth of experience and geographical knowledge across the framework area, from their complementary involvement in the West and East Alliances of TransPennine Route Upgrade and the East Coast Main Line Power Supply Upgrade, in addition to the insights and relationships built during previous work for Network Rail and sub-national transport body Transport for the North. Skanska further enhances the JV through experience of delivering large scale rail projects, including for Network Rail as well as the London Tunnels section of HS2 as the Skanska Costain STRABAG JV (alongside Arup).
Phil Harrison, UKIMEA Rail Leader at Arup, said: “Our JV will help Network Rail create a future-ready transport system for Northern England, offering more sustainable travel choices through well-designed schemes.
“This programme will deliver quicker, more frequent rail services; connect people to more job opportunities and improve connectivity between key northern cities creating an impact for generations to come.”
Nick Salt, Chief Executive of SYSTRA Limited, said: “This is a significant strategic placement for SYSTRA, Arup and Skanska, putting us at the forefront of rail improvements for the region.
“Our combined expertise; dedication to delivering value for our client; and our passion for improving connectivity for the communities in which we live and work, will help bring these critical infrastructure programmes to life, with benefits for people, the environment and the economy.”
James Corker, Skanska’s Rail Operations Director said: “It’s hugely encouraging to see such commitment to improving rail connectivity across the region. Through bringing together design and construction expertise, we can improve how projects are developed and delivered – benefitting communities, the public purse and the safety of our people.”