HS2 Ltd has issued a call for contractors to bid on the enabling works contract for the new Automated People Mover (APM) at Interchange Station in Solihull. The APM will provide a vital link between the station, the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham International Railway Station, and Birmingham Airport.
The enabling works contract is worth up to £2m and will include topographical surveys, ground investigations, and utility surveys. The work is expected to take around 12 months to complete and will pave the way for construction of the APM’s main infrastructure components.
“The APM is vital for both Interchange Station and the surrounding area,” said Ailsa Waygood, HS2’s Project Client for Interchange Station and the APM. “It will connect millions of people to new opportunities to live, work, and play in Solihull.
“Arden Cross plan to bring new homes, learning hubs and businesses to the area around the station, and both the NEC and Airport are turbocharging their growth plans in readiness for its arrival.
Findings from the ground investigation works, topographical and bathymetric surveys will help to inform the existing design for the APM and future works packages.
This is a hugely exciting time for the West Midlands region, and we look forward to onboarding our first contractor to help turn this vision into reality.”
Sean Butler, HS2’s senior project manager for the APM, added: “Launching the procurement for the APM enabling works is the result of several years of collaboration and engagement across HS2, DfT, and stakeholders in the region.”
“This is the first step in the journey to deliver the APM in time for HS2 services arriving at Interchange Station.”
HS2 expects to award the enabling works contract early next year, with works to commence in the spring.
Alongside the new APM contract, HS2 are also expecting a further two procurement opportunities to become available next year.
Next year, HS2 is planning on issuing tenders for the contract to design and supply the transport system alongside a tender for a 25-year transport operation and maintenance contract.
They also plan to step up market engagement throughout 2024 as it continues its search for a supplier of the APM’s infrastructure components.
Photo Credit: HS2
