Two major contracts have been awarded through Pagabo's civil engineering and infrastructure framework to modernise London Underground's iconic Piccadilly Line, a vital part of the city's transport system since 1906.

The upgrade, known as the Piccadilly Line Upgrade project, aims to transform the line by introducing new trains, increasing capacity, and enhancing the overall passenger experience.

Transport for London (TfL) has awarded contracts to VolkerFitzpatrick and Taylor Woodrow to provide Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) services for the development of Cockfosters and Northfield Depots, respectively. These depots will play a key role in maintaining and operating 94 new trains set to be introduced as part of the project.

The contracts were awarded under a single procurement process, allowing TfL to streamline the appointment of its preferred contractors while ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. The upgrades to the depots are seen as critical to supporting the long-term efficiency and reliability of one of London’s busiest Underground lines.

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David Llewellyn, head of construction and infrastructure at Pagabo, said: "We are thrilled to have facilitated this important procurement for TfL, bringing together two exceptional contractors, VolkerFitzpatrick and Taylor Woodrow.

"With our extensive knowledge and expertise in compliant procurement – particularly with the upcoming Procurement Act changes – our team was able to work closely with TfL throughout to ensure a swift and smooth process adhering to procurement regulations. This allowed the procurement of VolkerFitzpatrick and Taylor Woodrow to be accelerated, putting them both in place to get ECI services underway for the respective depots as soon as possible.

"As one of Europe’s largest metropolitan transport authorities, it's fantastic to be handling these two appointments for TfL, providing our support and experience throughout. This is just the first of many more large-scale infrastructure projects that have been procured through our civil engineering and infrastructure framework this year, including nine other projects for TfL and Places for London."

The project for the Piccadilly Line Upgrade depots at Cockfosters and Northfields has been split into two phases procured simultaneously, with the ECI stage proceeding the detailed design and build stage. Both phases will be delivered under the NEC3 form of contract.

Paul Lilley, divisional director, rail and depots, at VolkerFitzpatrick, said: "We are delighted to be starting our first contract procured through Pagabo’s civil engineering and infrastructure framework by offering support to essential upgrades to the Piccadilly line’s Cockfosters Depot. Our collaboration with Pagabo, TfL, and our supply chain partners will be crucial for the successful and safe execution of this project. We look forward to sustainably modernising the Piccadilly line, ensuring it is fit for future use."