Rail Franchise Advisor Framework

The current West Midlands Rail franchise expires in 2026. Ahead of procuring the next franchise, the West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE) (part of the West Midlands Combined Authority) is seeking advice in terms of the decision process and business case development.

Rail matters in the West Midlands. It is vital that the West Midlands has rail services across the region that are fit for the future and able to support our ambitious plans for growth and economic prosperity; helping commuters get to work, businesses and communities to connect with each other and welcoming visitors to the heart of the country.

In the past the area has not had the influence needed to make the right local decisions about local rail services. In recent years that has changed, with overall responsibility for the regional rail network being devolved from Whitehall to the West Midlands. Today WMRE is providing the leadership and drive to shape better rail services for the future by working with government, train operators, rail regulators and other partners to deliver the improvements that West Midlanders want and need.

The evidence from elsewhere in the U.K. suggests that when devolution happens, train reliability and punctuality improves and passenger satisfaction levels increase. There is more innovation and investment. Rail services are planned with wider economic, social and environmental goals in mind. Consequently, WMRE intends to go with the grain of what has already been achieved, including by pressing ahead with exploring opportunities for full rail devolution for the West Midlands.

To do this, WMRE intends on setting up a framework of advisors that it can call upon to provide advice on specific matters relating to rail franchise design, rail financing, rail fares, and financial risk sharing.

Please note that this is for information only and interested parties do not need to respond or provide any information at this point. The WMRE is expecting to place a Contract Notice around 07/12/18 advising next steps and what potential bidders will need to provide to Express their Interest in this forthcoming framework