Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has initiated a procurement process for a substantial new infrastructure contract valued at up to GBP1.6 billion (US$2.1 billion) to support and expand the region’s Metrolink light rail system. 

The agreement will ensure the ongoing operation and expansion of the Metrolink system while enhancing rail accessibility throughout the Greater Manchester area. As the UK’s largest light rail network, Metrolink plays a key role in the region’s integrated transport plans. Under the contract, the Metrolink asset renewal programme will be implemented, involving the replacement of critical infrastructure, including tracks, overhead wiring, and power distribution systems. TfGM has indicated that the new agreement could have an expanded scope, potentially covering upgrades to current Metrolink stops, the addition of new stops and route extensions, infrastructure to accommodate future tram fleets, initiatives under the Department for Transport’s Access for All programme, and the creation of Travel Hubs. Set to commence in 2027, the contract is intended to advance the goals of the Greater Manchester Strategy and the Bee Network vision for a unified, accessible, and efficient transport network.

In the early stage of procurement, TfGM has released a Preliminary Market Engagement (PME) document and a Planned Procurement Notice (PPN) to gather supplier feedback on the proposed delivery approach, particularly about the project’s scale and complexity. The authority is seeking views on key points such as the potential adoption of delivery partner models and the benefits of consolidating multiple workstreams into a single contract to improve efficiency and minimize disruption. Based on questionnaire responses, up to 10 suppliers will be shortlisted for one-to-one workshops. Full project details and documentation are available through the Central Digital Platform.