Transport for London is preparing for the next road tunnel maintenance contract, covering a 12-year period from 2029 and valued at an estimated £180 million excluding VAT. The current contract expires on 31 March 2029.
This is an early-stage market engagement, not a live procurement. TfL wants to gauge supplier capabilities and gather feedback before formally inviting bids. The process gives contractors time to prepare for the forthcoming opportunity.
How it works
The maintenance contract will run from 1 April 2029 to 1 April 2037, with a possible extension to 31 March 2041. It covers 10 road tunnels currently under TfL’s responsibility, with an additional two tunnels on the A13 due to be added in 2030.
Work includes mechanical and electrical maintenance, keeping Intelligent Transportation Systems operational, maintaining communication networks, and managing safety-related assets. TfL’s London Road Tunnel Network Traffic Control System (LTRACS) spans about 90km and is central to this.
Other tasks involve preventative and reactive maintenance, inspections, testing, condition monitoring, fault response, asset reporting, cleaning, lifecycle replacements, inventory management, and both physical and cyber security for operational systems.
Where it fits
London’s road tunnels support key carriageways and urban routes where safety and uninterrupted operation are critical. Systems such as lighting, traffic signals, control equipment, and pumping stations must work reliably to keep tunnels clear and safe.
The existing contract, awarded in 2021, covers tunnels and pumping stations. The new contract extends these responsibilities over a longer period, reflecting the need for consistent ongoing maintenance.
What it changes
The early market engagement is a route under the UK Procurement Act 2023 that allows TfL to create a dynamic market of qualified suppliers. This mechanism is not a request for procurement but helps TfL understand market capacity and preferred delivery models.
The estimated contract value of £180 million excludes VAT, totalling £216 million with VAT. It spans works classified under several CPV codes including road traffic-control equipment, road tunnel construction, highway maintenance, and pump repair services.
Suppliers interested in participating can register their interest by contacting TfL’s Commercial Manager for Road Surface Tunnels at ForhanMiah@tfl.gov.uk. A Market Sounding Questionnaire will be available from 12 October for at least three weeks, with a deadline for engagement on 30 October 2026.
Further details are published on Find a Tender under notice WS2986809626.
