HS2 Project Third Party Telecommunications Systems

Third-Party Telecommunications Systems are to be procured as a single package, with two contracts, formed of Design & Build and Interim Operator elements.

The Third-Party Telecommunications Contractor will be responsible for the design, supply, installation, testing & commissioning and interim operation of the Third-Party Telecommunication systems, this includes:

Passenger communication systems: Radio Access Network infrastructure to support the provision of voice and data mobile communications for HS2 users in stations and on the trains throughout the HS2 estate. This will require engagement and management of commercial arrangements with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs);

Emergency Services Network: (ESN) (tunnels and stations): Radio Access Network infrastructure to support coverage in stations, tunnels, depots and line of route to facilitate mobile communications for emergency response operations. This will include engagement and management of commercial arrangements with the ESN radio access network provider, on behalf of HS2 and or/ the Home Office;

Station Data Network (SDN): fixed and mobile communications including Distributed Antenna System (DAS) communication network to support both operational and public connectivity within all HS2 stations. This will include transmission services (Ethernet, Wi-Fi, ESN and mobile cellular) to station operational systems, retail systems, customer information, customer communication and business systems; and

Interim operations: during trial operations, a separate contract will be awarded to the Third Party Telecommunications Contractor (Interim Operator) to operate and maintain the Third Party Telecommunication systems including provision of MNO, ESN and SDN services during trial operations.

The Contracts

Design & Build Contract: A contract for the design and build based on the NEC3 Engineering and Construction Contract (April 2013) Pricing Option C (Target Price with an Activity Schedule), will be used with suitable HS2 Ltd amendments and choice of optional X and Z clauses.

Interim Operator Contract: A contract for maintenance and interim operational services based on the NEC3 Term Service Contract (April 2013) Pricing Option A (Priced Contract with price list) with suitable HS2 Ltd amendments including a choice of optional X and Z clauses.

Upon completion the works will be handed over to a long-term Operating Partner. The Operating Partner will operate and maintain the systems and to provide MNO, ESN and SDN services by the start of full HS2 passenger services. The Operating Partner contract is out of scope of this procurement.