Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), on behalf of the MetroLink programme, has issued contract notices to engage contractors for the M14 Utilities and Enabling Works Framework in Dublin, Ireland.

The M14 Framework, set up under the NEC4 suite of contracts, is intended to facilitate the delivery of the M100 Advanced Works Programme as well as the broader MetroLink project. The framework will initially operate for four years, with the possibility of extensions up to a total of 12 years. This includes a further four-year renewal followed by up to four additional one-year extensions. The extended duration is necessary to support the overall MetroLink programme and ensure alignment with the timelines of the M400 and M500 contracts. 

The M14 Framework will be delivered through five separate work packages and will cover a broad range of preparatory and enabling activities. These include securing land access by modifying existing infrastructure and establishing construction compounds, as well as carrying out demolition works required to make way for the MetroLink project. The scope also involves site clearance activities such as vegetation removal, including invasive species, along with the implementation of tree protection measures and modifications to existing playing pitches. Additional works will address cellar treatment and façade retention where necessary.

The framework also encompasses heritage-related activities, including the removal, storage, conservation, repair, and reinstatement of designated heritage elements. Archaeological works will be undertaken where required, covering investigation, documentation, and resolution in areas with known constraints. Landscaping works, both hard and soft, will also form part of the programme, alongside a wide range of civil engineering activities such as road construction and reinstatement, earthworks, drainage, utilities installation, road markings, and other associated infrastructure works.

In addition, the framework includes property refurbishment works, including measures to mitigate noise impacts. Utility-related works form a significant component, covering the decommissioning, diversion, protection, and upgrading of existing services, as well as the installation of new connections where necessary. This will involve handling assets such as electricity, gas, water, drainage, and telecommunications, along with ongoing coordination with utility providers and key stakeholders. Further activities include sewer relining and protection, general building works, site investigations, surveying, monitoring, and testing, as well as fulfilling the role of Project Supervisor for the Construction Stage (PSCS).

For the M14 Utilities and Enabling Works Framework, the contracting authority plans to shortlist and appoint contractors across five distinct lots through a structured procurement process. For Lot 1 (Major Site Enabling), up to five applicants will be invited to tender, with a maximum of three ultimately selected for the framework. In Lot 2 (Major Utilities), up to seven applicants will be shortlisted, from which up to four contractors will be appointed. Similarly, for Lot 3 (Minor Site Enabling), Lot 4 (Minor Utilities), and Lot 5 (Multidisciplinary Works), up to five applicants will be shortlisted for each lot, with up to three contractors appointed under each category. Applicants should also be aware that they may submit bids for no more than three lots within the M14 Utilities and Enabling Works Framework.