HS2 Ltd has begun early market engagement on professional services arrangements that could support the remaining phases of the high-speed rail programme.
The proposed services are expected to cover project and programme management, technical and engineering work, and commercial delivery capabilities. HS2 said the scope is indicative and could be refined, amended or expanded following discussions with potential suppliers.
Potential contract period runs to 2037
The estimated contract period runs from 1 October 2027 to 30 September 2037. Services listed in the engagement notice include construction project management, project management consultancy, cost monitoring and estimation, quantity surveying, procurement consultancy, and engineering and construction consultancy.
The potential scope also includes civil engineering support, transport systems consultancy, railway engineering, environmental impact assessment, building surveying, telecommunications consultancy, engineering design, archaeological services, urban planning and landscape architecture.
Systems and technical consultancy, environmental planning, and architectural, construction, engineering and inspection services are also identified.
HS2 said the engagement reflects the “scale, complexity and critical importance” of the programme’s remaining phases. The projects are moving from major civil engineering works towards railway systems installation, integration, testing and commissioning.
Suppliers to advise on contract structure
HS2 is seeking views on market capacity and capability, possible packaging and lotting approaches, contract duration and term options, the allocation of risk between HS2 and its partners, and potential incentivisation mechanisms.
The organisation has indicated that a framework agreement will not be established, although it stressed that no decision has been made on the final contractual vehicle or procurement route. Suppliers have also been told not to interpret the notice as confirmation that a framework will be excluded from the eventual procurement strategy.
A virtual supplier broadcast is scheduled for 29 September 2026, followed by a market engagement questionnaire. Responses are due by 4pm on 16 October. Suppliers that complete the questionnaire will then be offered virtual one-to-one meetings between 26 October and 6 November.
HS2’s estimated publication date for a tender notice is 1 April 2027.