OREANDA-NEWS. Network Rail has awarded framework contracts worth a combined £250m for the delivery of building and civils work on the Scotland and London North Eastern routes.

Seven successful suppliers will deliver more than 1,000 maintenance, renewals and enhancements projects, improving earthworks, bridges, tunnels, footbridges and station buildings as part of Network Rail's £38bn programme to build a bigger, better railway in control period 5 (2014-19).

The frameworks, which will run for an initial three years, have been designed to deliver a range of benefits including outstanding levels of safety, improvements in cost and quality and greater productivity through collaborative working. If suppliers can demonstrate that work has been delivered safely and successfully within budget, the contracts can each be extended by another two years plus one further year.

Rob McIntosh, regional director of infrastructure projects, Network Rail, said: “As the number of passengers and companies that rely on Britain's railway continues to rise, it's vital that all parts of our infrastructure are fit for purpose.

“These new frameworks represent a significant commitment by suppliers, allowing us to work closely with them so that work can be carried out more quickly and efficiently.

“Network Rail is continuing to drive down the costs of Britain's railway and is committed to meeting tough efficiency targets. Our work with these suppliers will ensure that improvement work is delivered safely and efficiently, ultimately delivering a bigger, better and better value railway.”