TRANSPORT FOR London is adopting a new two-stage procurement process for the signalling and train control system for the Deep Tube Programme (DTUP). The move is thought to be in response to lessons learned in previous signalling procurements, notably the sub-surface resignalling, which has been delayed after TfL twice cancelled contracts with suppliers.
DTUP will see the Bakerloo, Central, Piccadilly and Waterloo & City Lines upgraded with new trains and signalling systems during the 2020s and 2030s. The Piccadilly Line will be the first to receive these improvements by 2026, with the Bakerloo following by 2028 and the other two lines in the early 2030s. DTUP was formerly known as New Tube for London (NTfL).
Three companies have been shortlisted to be invited to tender for the DTUP signalling and train control system contract. TfL plans to issue an invitation to negotiate in April, with bids due back by the autumn. Following a period of tender evaluation, two bidders will be shortlisted for a ‘tender development stage’ in spring 2018, where their proposals will be verified to ensure that London Underground has confidence that their system and approach to delivery are deliverable and will meet LU’s requirements. Contract award would then follow in spring 2019.
TfL intends to procure a single signalling and train control system across the four lines in order to maximise market appetite and drive benefits in a standard system platform across the lines. This is expected to secure scale economies in design, more flexible operations and lower maintenance costs, while also reducing the cost of railway control systems and enabling a rationalisation of operational control centre facilities.
TfL is currently evaluating three bids for the contract to supply rolling stock, which will initially comprise around 100 trains for the Piccadilly Line. Options to add orders for the remaining three lines will be included, with contract award targeted for Quarter 4 of this year.
