Rail renewals deal awarded

Network Rail (NR) has answered contractors' speculation that the track renewals contracts will be substantially delayed (CJ 25 February) by awarding one such deal to GrantRail.
The five-year framework contract will deliver cost reductions and significant improvements in value for money through: more integrated methods of working; improved specification; optimised job lengths; better use of track access and resources; competitive pricing; and benchmarking unit rates for standardised work.
The contract is for plain line and switch and crossing renewals work in the East Midlands and sections of the London North Western Territory, and follows 12 months of detailed negotiations between the parties.
NR said the rest of the contract awards would follow "in the coming weeks".