HS2 introduce measures to help supply chain build back from pandemic

New measures have been introduced by HS2 to bolster the visibility of supply chain opportunities across its rail systems contracts.

This move will help businesses of all sizes plan and deliver with confidence as they look to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Research commissioned by the Rail Supply Group found that improving work pipeline visibility was the main priority for UK rail businesses.

This comes as the Government introduced its High Speed Rail (Crewe to Manchester) Bill to allow construction to begin on the high speed line between Crewe and Manchester.

Robin Lapish, Senior Supply Chain Manager at HS2 commented on the work being done to support the UK’s rail supply chain.

Mr Lapish said: “We’re acting on feedback to provide UK businesses with a heads up on the opportunities that will soon filter down from HS2’s multi-billion-pound rail systems contracts.

“This enhanced transparency puts smaller businesses in a strong position.

“Allowing them [smaller businesses] to engage directly with our main contractors and gear up for the vast programme of work that’s on the horizon.”

HS2 has signed up to the Group’s Work Pipeline Visibility Charter making the Technical Specifications for all its Rail Systems packages publicly available.

Prospective tier two and three suppliers can now access the same technical information as tier one companies bidding for HS2’s Railway Systems contracts.

These contracts cover Track, Overhead Catenary, Mechanical and Electrical, Telecoms, Power and signalling and are worth an estimated £3bn in total.

The Railway Industry Association (RIA) and High Speed Rail Group are delighted with efforts being made by HS2 to help the supply chain’s pandemic recovery.

Kate Jennings, RIA Director and High Speed Rail Group Board Director said: “We are really pleased to see HS2 Ltd improving the visibility of upcoming work for rail businesses.”

“The greater visibility rail suppliers have, whether multi-nationals or SMEs, the better they are able to plan and invest in the teams and capabilities needed to deliver complex projects.

“The industry looks forward to continuing to support HS2.

“A truly transformational project that will help spur an economic recovery whilst improving connectivity for people across the UK.”

In December HS2 announced that its high speed trains are set to be built in the UK by a Hitachi/Alstom joint venture supporting 2,500 jobs.

HS2 are set to begin awarding its core Railway Systems contracts to businesses from the end of this year.