Shortlist For Melbourne Metro Rail Early Works Released

Published:
Tuesday 23 February 2016

Three world-leading bidders have been shortlisted to deliver the first stage of works on the biggest public transport infrastructure project in Australia.

Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan today announced the bidders selected for the next phase of the Melbourne Metro Rail Project Early Works package tender process:

  • CPB Contractors (formerly Leighton Contractors)
  • John Holland KBR JV – comprising John Holland Group and KBR, Inc (formerly Kellogg Brown & Root)
  • Lend Lease Coleman Rail JV – comprising Lend Lease Engineering and Coleman Rail Pty Ltd

The shortlisting follows a rigorous Expression of Interest process undertaken by Melbourne Metro Rail Authority (MMRA), which delivered a high standard of responses from companies around the world.

The Early Works package will deliver hundreds of millions of dollars in critical works to prepare key sites for the start of major construction on Melbourne Metro Rail in 2018.

The works include the relocation and protection of underground services such as gas, sewer and water mains, the relocation of trees and other road features, and the design and construction of access shafts.

In preparation for the Early Works package, MMRA is undertaking site investigations along the alignment. These investigations, which involve the excavation of narrow trenches at multiple locations, will provide more information about ground conditions and the location of underground services.

Shortlisted bidders will be requested to submit a formal proposal in the second quarter of 2016. A contract will be awarded in mid-2016, with construction to commence soon after.

The announcement of the shortlisted bidders follows the release of the business case for the $10.9 billion project yesterday, which will transform Melbourne’s rail network into an international-style metro system able to carry 39,000 extra passengers every peak.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan

“Melbourne Metro Rail will return up to $1.50 for every dollar invested, generate 4700 jobs during peak construction and create space for nearly 40,000 extra passengers every morning and evening peak.”

“Today’s shortlist announcement paves the way for formal proposals and contract award by the middle of the year, the start of early works in 2017 and major construction in 2018.”

“After four long years under the former Liberal Government, who ignored then abandoned this critical project, we’re getting on with it .

Quotes attributable to CEO, Melbourne Metro Rail Authority Evan Tattersall

“Following detailed evaluation of the expressions of interest, to have three bidders with such a high level of experience in international and local transport projects is a fantastic result for Victoria.”