Network Rail trails £450m Scotland electrification framework

The framework will support the development, delivery, entry into service and handback of overhead line and traction power systems under Scotland’s railway decarbonisation programme.

Network Rail Infrastructure Limited said it intends to appoint a single contractor under a nil value NR30 Framework Commission Agreement.

The selected firm will deliver overhead line electrification based on the UK Master Series, alongside traction power, power and distribution, ancillaries and associated design works.

The contracting authority estimated that around £300m of works is currently intended to be awarded over the initial term. Scotland’s Railway has set a total framework value of £450m to account for emerging works that may arise during the agreement period.

The framework is expected to run from 1 March 2027 to 29 February 2032, with an option to extend to 28 February 2035. This would give the arrangement a potential duration of eight years.

The procurement falls under the Utilities regime and is classified as a works contract. It covers railway construction works, overhead power lines, ancillary works for electricity power lines and engineering design services across Scotland.

Network Rail said the framework will play a central role in delivering electrification elements required to meet Scotland’s rail decarbonisation targets. The Scottish Government has committed to removing diesel passenger trains from the network by 2035, creating sustained demand for overhead line and power infrastructure upgrades.

A supplier engagement session will be held via Microsoft Teams at 1pm on 18 February. Interested parties must complete a questionnaire through Network Rail’s Bravo procurement portal by 5pm on 16 February.

The tender notice for the framework is expected to be published on 9 March 2026.

This article was authored by Harmsworth for Construction News and published under the title 'Network Rail trails £450m Scotland electrification framework', on Network Rail trails £450m Scotland electrification framework | Construction News. It is reproduced above in accordance with section 30(2) of the Copyright, Design and Patents Act 1988.