The Victorian Government this week has released the shortlist of bidders selected to deliver the first stage of works on the Melbourne Metro Rail Project (MMRP).
State Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan announced in a statement on Wednesday that three world-leading bidders have been chosen to go through to the next phase of the MMRP 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), and Lend Lease Coleman Rail JV – comprising Lend Lease Engineering and Coleman Rail Pty Ltd are the three bidders for the project.
The shortlisting follows a rigorous expression of interest process undertaken by Melbourne Metro Rail Authority (MMRA).
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 MMRP 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 early works, MMRA is undertaking site investigations along the alignment, which involve the excavation of narrow trenches at multiple locations and 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.
“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.”
The announcement of the shortlisted bidders follows the release of the business case for the $10.9 billion project on Tuesday, which will transform Melbourne’s rail network into an international-style metro system able to carry 39,000 extra passengers every peak.
“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,” said Minister Allan.