Balfour Beatty has been appointed as the preferred bidder for a major Network Rail contract.

The construction giant won an 80% share in the £1.5 billion Central Track Alliance, which will be responsible for the development, design and delivery of track renewals and crossings, as well as associated infrastructure works across the London North West, London North East and East Midland routes. Atkins and TSO each have a 10% share.

The new geographically-focused alliance model will promote greater collaboration between Network Rail and its partners. Focusing delivery partners' on specific regions, the model will ensure dedicated attention on regional-specific rail requirements and works.  

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Steve Featherstone, Network Rail's programme director Track, said: "I look forward to working closely with Balfour Beatty, TSO and Atkins to establish our new alliance to deliver great value for the taxpayer and great service for our passengers and freight customers. Reaching this important milestone ensures we will have a stable foundation for the delivery of the core railway infrastructure across Great Britain for the next decade."

Leo Quinn, Balfour Beatty Group Chief Executive, added: "As one of the UK's leading rail infrastructure suppliers, Balfour Beatty is proud to be part of the alliance appointed to ensure reliability of the UK's rail network. Our expertise will be focused on driving innovative solutions that deliver sustainable, safer rail infrastructure.

"We believe that industry collaboration is the way to drive higher efficiency and service standards. Network Rail's new alliance model is a great step forward in rail contract procurement."

Full contract award is expected in the second quarter of 2019.

Works are due to commence later this year.

(CM/JG)