Transport for Wales has chosen Balfour Beatty, Alun Griffiths and Siemens Mobility for Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) contracts as part of the South Wales Metro
Balfour Beatty, Alun Griffiths and Siemens Mobility have been awarded contracts as part of the procurement process for the first projects of the South Wales Metro, including control systems, track work, stations and the new fleet maintenance depot in Taff’s Well.
ECI contracts are awarded for preparatory work in order to develop plans and design work ahead of the major stages of the procurement process for engineering projects. All three companies will now be working with TfW on these projects, including working to establish a high-quality supply chain with local Welsh businesses.
Transport for Wales is transforming the transport sector across the Wales and Borders network with a £5bn investment programme that is focused on improving the customer experience and improving the social, economic, environmental and cultural well-being of Wales.
James Price, chief executive of Transport for Wales, said: “The South Wales Metro is one of our most important and exciting projects, and I’m delighted that Transport for Wales will be working with three renowned companies on the first crucial stages of our plans to transform public transport, both in the South Wales region and throughout the Wales and Borders network as a whole.
“The development of the Metro will be a major boost to the local economy of South Wales, creating jobs directly and in the local supply chain. We will work closely with Balfour Beatty, Alun Griffiths and Siemens as they help us develop our vision of a high quality, safe, integrated, affordable and accessible transport network of which the people of South Wales are proud.”
Shaun Thompson, rail director at Alun Griffiths (Contractors) Ltd, commented: “We are delighted to be working collaboratively with TfW on this exciting development. As a Welsh company who self-delivers, it enables us to recruit and train new local employees, enhancing the economy in Wales. Being involved right from the start on these ECI contracts, allows our people to add value by innovating, promoting health and safety and reducing risk.”
Rob Morris, managing director of rail automation in the UK for Siemens Mobility, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this ECI contract and to build further on the success of the projects we have already delivered in South Wales. Our experienced and rapidly-growing team is now looking forward to working closely with TfW and the local supply chain on this exciting programme of work.”
Mick Rayner, managing director of Balfour Beatty Rail business, added: “Today marks a significant milestone in the delivery of Transport for Wales’ investment programme and the South Wales Metro project, which on completion will significantly improve transport links in South Wales.
“Utilising our unrivalled expertise in electrification and our deep experience in the installation of new tracks, we are perfectly positioned to work with Transport for Wales during the early contractor involvement phase to develop the design of this highly anticipated scheme.”
