Transport for London (TfL) has recently signed a five-year maintenance contract with M Group, covering the upkeep of bridges and civil structures, with an option to extend for a further three years. Following a competitive flexible procedure under the Procurement Act 2023, M Group Transport (Rail & Aviation) has been selected as the preferred contractor to deliver this public infrastructure service.
The total contract value is approximately £119 million (including VAT). It is scheduled to commence on April 1, 2026, and run until March 31, 2031, with the possibility of renewal until March 31, 2034. This investment underscores TfL's commitment to the safety and reliable operation of the rail network, particularly the support of key bridges and civil structures.
The contract scope includes comprehensive planned preventive and reactive maintenance, excluding lineside works. The services are extensive, encompassing protective coating treatments for assets such as brickwork, masonry, concrete, and steel structures to ensure long-term performance and structural integrity. Vegetation management is also a significant component, helping to prevent risks associated with overgrowth and ensuring infrastructure remains clear.
Specific tasks involve maintaining brick tunnels, covered ways, beams, and cable-related facilities such as cable posts and steps. Activities include replacing damaged cable posts and undertaking regular interventions to proactively address structural issues. Additionally, the contract covers the maintenance of cable draw pits and the replacement of identification plates, which are crucial for asset tracking and management.
Reactive maintenance and fault response are equally important, as prompt repairs to emerging issues help minimize disruption and reduce the risk of incidents. Inspection planning and support services play a strategic role in the ongoing monitoring of asset conditions.
The tender process involved three bidders, with M Group Transport emerging as the successful bidder, competing against Spoor-Tech and Millcroft Services. The selection was based on an assessment of technical capability, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with TfL's infrastructure resilience strategy.
By commissioning M Group Transport, TfL aims to maintain high safety standards, reduce operational risks, and optimize the lifecycle performance of its bridges and civil structures. These measures are vital for supporting London's complex transport network, ensuring a safe and reliable travel experience for millions of passengers daily.
The contract award demonstrates the increasing emphasis on preventive maintenance in modern infrastructure management.
