02.01.14
Bombardier loses sub-surface lines signalling contract
London Underground is to re-let the re-signalling contract for the Circle, District, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines.
Bombardier was awarded a contract in June 2011 and has completed preparatory work including the construction of a new control centre, but it is thought compatibility issues have made it impossible to continue.
The work done so far will be taken forward with another contractor due to “the complex nature of the network” and to meet the planned deadline.
The original delivery timetable of 2018 will be maintained, LU insisted, and Bombardier retains its separate contract to deliver the new S-Stock trains, which will be introduced as part of the upgrade.
LU’s managing director, Mike Brown, said: “This is the right decision to make for London Underground and for Londoners. We have been working closely with Bombardier to find a way forward on what is one of the most challenging and complex pieces of work on the Tube.
“However it has become apparent to both parties that for the work to be completed within or close to the planned deadline, we need to push on with works with another contractor. Enabling works already completed by LU and Bombardier can be utilised when works recommence next year.
“I look forward, of course, to continuing to working with Bombardier who are delivering the walk through air conditioned trains that will serve all four Sub-Surface lines by 2016.”
Lutz Bertling, president and chief operating officer, Bombardier Transportation: “Together with London Underground we have now laid the foundation for the complex signalling upgrade of the Sub Surface Railway. Both parties have jointly and amicably agreed to complete and finalise the works that have been provided to date, and we look forward to working with London Underground as we continue to deliver the new air-conditioned trains for the network.”
Read RTM’s interviews with LU and Bombardier about the re-signalling project during its testing phase here.
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