Manchester Metrolink could once again have a new operator from 2017 with the contract to operate and maintain the network up for grabs. Four companies have been shortlisted with current incumbent RATP Dev joined by KeolisAmey, National Express and Transdev now being invited to submit a tender for the contract.
The current contract runs until 2017 and will be replaced by a new 10 year deal and is said to be at an exciting time for the network. As well as being the 25th anniversary of the opening of the first lines it will also see the completion of the Second City Crossing and could also possibly see the start of construction on the Trafford Park extension.
An invitation to negotiate will be issued in early 2016 and the contract will be signed in January 2017 with the new contract starting in July 2017.
Dr Jon Lamonte, TfGM Chief Executive, said: “This is a truly exciting time for TfGM and the people of Greater Manchester and we are looking for a partner to work with us and realise the full benefits of the unprecedented growth and investment we are seeing across Metrolink. I am in no doubt that this is an excellent opportunity to take over the controls of the largest tram network in the country, an established Greater Manchester icon, and a symbol of Greater Manchester’s ardent ambition and appetite for growth. I am pleased to be able to share the shortlist publically and I look forward to working with KeolisAmey, National Express, Transdev and RATP Dev on this journey.”