Rail franchises operators & contracts

HS2 commence search for lift and escalator suppliers

The search for contractors to design, deliver and maintain almost 300 state-of-the-art lifts and escalators for HS2’s four major new stations began yesterday (Apr 22.)

168 lifts and 128 escalators will be fitted across the project, helping hundreds of thousands of people access HS2 trains every day.

All the new stations being built in London and Birmingham will be zero carbon in terms of day-to-day operation, and fully accessible, with step-free access from street to train.  

The escalators would stretch more than 3km, longer than the Forth Rail Bridge.

All of HS2’s new stations will be constructed to the highest industry standard, BREEAM Excellent, in terms of sustainable lifetime performance. Energy efficient lifts and escalators are a key part of achieving these ambitious environmental standards.

When completed, HS2 will more than double capacity along Britain’s main north south rail routes and halve journey times between London, Birmingham and further north.

This new dedicated high-speed route will free up more space for local and freight services on the current mainline out of Euston and offer an environmentally friendly form of transport for long distance passengers.

David Poole, HS2 Ltd’s Procurement and Commercial Director, said: “The launch of this landmark contract opportunity is a major step forward in the delivery of HS2’s four iconic new railway stations. The lifts and escalators our partners go on to deliver will be at the heart of the operation, moving hundreds of thousands of people every day and helping us to ensure seamless journeys for everyone.

“I look forward to our team working with the suppliers who come forward and together ensuring that we deliver best quality and value for the project.”