Before formally entering the tendering process, AT is looking to engage with operators. It is planning to explain the opportunity and seek input from the market to help design the optimal operating and commercial framework that would underpin the future rail operating franchise for Auckland.
Auckland has a population of 1.7 million residents, which is served by a 185km suburban rail network with 42 stations. Services are operated by 57 three-car EMUs, with 15 additional trains on order from CAF. The network carries around 20 million passengers per annum, which is growing at 9% per year.
“The franchise will include train operations through the City Rail Link (CRL) when it opens, and there will be a large role for the rail operator in testing and commissioning of the infrastructure in the lead up to the CRL opening,” AT rail franchise director, Mr Andrew Cooper, told IRJ. “Note that it has not yet been concluded whether the rail operator will be responsible for operations of the CRL stations. This will be included in the scope of the consultation that we wish to undertake with the industry.”
The CRL, which is due to open in 2024, is a 3.45km underground line link linking Britomart and Mt Eden.
Cooper said it was unknown how long the contract would run for, with the term length to be discussed during the industry consultation.
“However it is envisaged that it will be in the vicinity of 12-15 years made up of a base term and a performance extension,” he says.
AT will be undertaking consultation throughout 2019 to keep the market informed of progress and to seek input on its preferred operating model, the proposed commercial framework and high level terms.
AT has asked interested parties to register via email.
