Metrolink Asset Renewal: Greater Manchester Rail Expansion

Metrolink Gears Up for Major Asset Renewal and Expansion Programme

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has announced the commencement of a significant market engagement phase for its Metrolink asset renewal programme. This comprehensive initiative, spanning up to 12 years and commencing in 2027, aims to replace critical infrastructure and potentially extend the reach of the Greater Manchester tram network. The move, announced on July 28, 2025, via the Central Digital Platform and ProContract, signifies a pivotal step in the Bee Network strategy and reinforces the city-region’s commitment to creating a world-class, integrated transport system. This article delves into the scope of the project, the engagement process, and its implications for the future of Metrolink and the wider Greater Manchester area. Who: TfGM is leading the project. What: A comprehensive asset renewal and expansion program. When: Commencing in 2027, spanning up to 12 years. Where: Greater Manchester. Why: To modernize and expand Metrolink, supporting sustainable growth. How: Through a robust market engagement process and potentially bundled contracts.

Infrastructure Overhaul: Scope of the Renewal Programme

The core of the project focuses on essential asset renewals, including the replacement of critical infrastructure components such as the Metrolink track, overhead lines, and the distribution system that powers the trams. This foundational upgrade is critical for ensuring the continued reliability and efficiency of the current network. The contract scope extends far beyond basic renewals. Potential additions could include enhancements to existing Metrolink stops, the construction of new stops, and even line extensions, expanding the system’s footprint. The project also encompasses infrastructure upgrades for next-generation vehicles, “Access for All” rail schemes designed to improve accessibility, and the development of integrated travel hubs.

Market Engagement: Shaping the Future of Metrolink

TfGM’s commitment to collaborative delivery is underscored by its market engagement strategy. The initial Preliminary Market Engagement (PME) phase allows prospective suppliers to provide crucial feedback on the proposed delivery approach. This feedback loop is particularly focused on the scale, variety, and complexity of the works. TfGM is particularly interested in exploring diverse delivery models, including the potential for delivery partner arrangements. Furthermore, the agency is evaluating the feasibility of bundling multiple workstreams under a single contract to drive efficiencies and reduce operational disruption. Up to ten suppliers will be selected for one-to-one workshops following the initial questionnaire response to foster a more detailed exchange of information.

The Bee Network and Greater Manchester Strategy

The Metrolink asset renewal and expansion programme is intrinsically linked to the success of the Bee Network, Greater Manchester’s integrated transport vision. The overarching strategy aims to create a unified transport network that seamlessly connects various modes of transport, from trams and buses to cycling and walking. This integrated approach aligns directly with the goals outlined in the Greater Manchester Strategy: “creating a world-class integrated transport system befitting of a global city region, supporting sustainable economic growth and opportunity for all.” The project directly supports economic growth, job creation and delivers benefit to the entire region.

Collaborative Approach: Invitation to Suppliers

Danny Vaughan, Chief Network Officer at TfGM, emphasized the critical role of supplier collaboration: “This is a significant opportunity for suppliers to help shape how we deliver the next generation of Metrolink and rail accessibility infrastructure across Greater Manchester. We’re looking for innovative, efficient, and collaborative approaches that will support our ambitions for a world-class, integrated Bee Network. We encourage all interested parties to engage with us through this process.” This statement highlights the agency’s emphasis on finding innovative solutions. TfGM’s approach is to build a cooperative relationship with suppliers to drive efficiencies.

Conclusion

The Metrolink asset renewal and expansion programme represents a substantial investment in Greater Manchester’s transport infrastructure, promising to significantly enhance the network’s capabilities and reach. The initiative’s focus on comprehensive asset renewals, potential line extensions, and the development of travel hubs highlights a commitment to modernizing and expanding the tram network for the future. The market engagement process demonstrates a proactive approach to supplier collaboration, encouraging innovative solutions and efficient delivery models. The integration of these improvements within the framework of the Bee Network and the Greater Manchester Strategy reinforces the project’s role in driving economic growth, creating employment, and improving connectivity for the city-region. The emphasis on efficiency and a collaborative approach suggests that the project anticipates significant long-term benefits, paving the way for a more sustainable and user-friendly transportation network. The ambitious goals of the project and the willingness to engage with suppliers indicates that the future of Metrolink is positioned for expansion and modernisation.