Search begins for HS2 train builder

The search for a company to build trains capable of travelling 225mph to run on Britain’s HS2 network is now underway.

Transport Secretary, Chris Grayling, has launched the hunt for a company to design, build and maintain 60 trains in contract worth £2.75Bn.

Hundreds of skilled jobs will be created at the planned rolling stock depot in Washwood Heath, Birmingham to maintain the fleet, with the HS2 Network Control Centre also sharing the same site.

In total, 25,000 jobs and 2,000 apprentices will be created throughout the HS2 project.

The Department of Transport say that the chief requirement for companies vying for the contract is to provide “a world class passenger experience” that will carry more than 300,000 people every day.

The new trains will need to meet HS2’s design and performance standards to provide a world-class service for passengers that includes noise reduction and environmental sustainability.

An industry event will be held on 27 March where interested companies can get more information about the bidding requirements and process. Following this will be the launch of the pre-qualification questionnaire (PQQ) pack which will provide further details of the specifications for the trains.

Mr Grayling said: “Launching the hunt for a manufacturer of these trains is a major step towards Britain getting a new railway which will carry over 300,000 people a day, improve connections between our great cities, generate jobs, and helping us build an economy that works for all.

“Hundreds of jobs will be created in building and maintaining these trains, representing a great opportunity for British based businesses and suppliers.

“In total 25,000 jobs and 2,000 apprenticeships will be created during HS2 construction and we have held discussions with UK suppliers to make sure they are in the best possible position to win contracts.”

Phase one of the project is due to open in 2026 and run between London and Birmingham, with construction due to commence later this year.

A second Y-shaped phase will be launched in two stages.

HS2 Ltd’s Managing Director of Railway Operations, Chris Rayner, said: “We are looking for a supplier who is capable of delivering and maintaining some of the world’s most advanced rolling stock, with designs putting the passenger at their heart to ensure seamless, accessible, fast and reliable journeys.

“Starting from 2026, our trains will be used by tens of thousands of people every day, bringing the benefits of high speed rail not only to the core network, but also onward to places like Manchester, Glasgow, Liverpool, Preston and Wigan.”

Formal invitations to tender will be issued in 2018, with the contract will be awarded in late 2019.

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