Network Rail Announces £6bn Track Systems Contract for Next Decade of UK Rail Upgrades

Network Rail has issued a major pipeline notice revealing plans to procure Track Focused Railway Systems Contracts, worth an estimated £5bn before VAT (£6bn including VAT), to deliver track renewals, upgrades, and associated infrastructure works across the UK rail network during Control Periods 8 and 9 (CP8 and CP9).

The contracts will form part of the Rail Systems Alliances framework, longstanding partnerships between Network Rail and industry suppliers responsible for designing, installing, and maintaining track works on both plain line and switches and crossings (points). Existing alliance partnerships – including the Central, South, and Scotland Rail Systems Alliances – are scheduled to conclude in 2029.

Scope of WorksThe new contracts will cover a comprehensive range of services beyond track laying, including:

• Survey, site investigation, and design development

• Drainage, formation, ballast, sleepers, slab and rail installations

• Traction power, signalling, and minor civil engineering works such as foundations, level crossings, platforms, and cable troughing

• Integration with electrification and signalling programmes

• Provision of specialist plant and equipment to support efficient delivery

The contracts will also incorporate sustainability objectives and requirements under the transition to Great British Railways (GBR).

Timeline and ProcurementSuppliers will begin mobilisation by mid-2028, with contracts going live in mid-2029 and running until 31 July 2039. Detailed scope documents and the commercial model are expected alongside the tender notice on 4 May 2027, providing guidance for bidders.

Industry ImpactNetwork Rail emphasises a collaborative approach to the procurement process, signalling proactive engagement with the market in the months ahead. Industry stakeholders are expected to view the contract as a substantial opportunity, reflecting the scale of investment and the critical role of track systems in supporting the UK’s rail modernisation, decarbonisation, and capacity enhancements.

Network Rail said the programme represents a long-term commitment to delivering a safer, more reliable, and future-ready railway, reinforcing track and infrastructure renewals as central to government transport strategy and the needs of both passenger and freight services.