Network Rail has awarded contracts worth £800m for the haulage and operations of its engineering trains and seasonal treatment services in Control Period 6 (2019-2024).
The contracts, which include network, bulk ballast and possession engineering trains, have been awarded to Freightliner, GB Railfreight, Direct Rail Services, DB Cargo UK and Colas Rail UK.
DB Cargo, GB Railfreight and Freightliner will also operate Network Rail’s supply chain operations local distribution centres in CP6, with a focus on improving facilities and safety for better working practices and performance.
Rob Morton, director of supply chain operations at Network Rail, said: “We have applied a more collaborative and forward-thinking style to our sourcing than previously, which aligns not only our goals, but those of our supply partners.
“The new contracts provide us with sufficient flexibility to direct our spend to those suppliers who deliver the best service. We have also ensured the deals have appropriate mutual benefit to maximise their longevity and chance of delivering successfully.”
