Decision details

Between 2013 and 2015, embedded rail replacement works were undertaken on the Supertram network. These were carried out by Volker Rail to a design provided by South Yorkshire Supertram Limited (SYSL).

Following these works, significant lengths of polymer installed by Volker next to the rails failed leading to polymer delamination.

At the PTT meeting on 31/08/22 a report recommended that SYMCA procure and fund the necessary remedial works via a suitable contractor under a form of call off contract for 4/5 years.

Following a market engagement exercise with the market, a set of tender documents was issued in April 2023. Three tenders were received. The scope of the works covers polymer replacement, concrete repairs and associated traffic management.

Colas Rail Limited provided the tender with the most economically advantageous solution, and in February 2024 SYMCA entered into a Term Service Contract with Colas on a call-off basis, via discrete Task Orders. Works covered under the first Task Order have been delayed are currently nearing completion on site.

The second Task Order relates to works on Glossop Road and West Street and Colas have provided a quotation of £1,539,616 to undertake these works. Approval is sought for an amount which includes a risk/contingency allowance i.e. £1,684,648.

It is also proposed to retain Mott Macdonald in the role of Service Manager for the Task Order 2 works. The Service Manager role is a combination of reviewing the Contractor’s programme and methodology, observing the work on site, instructing the Contractor where necessary, managing change and costs, and administering the Contract. Full-time site attendance at night is provided as part of the Service Manager role. Mott Macdonald have provided a quotation of £224,398 to undertake the Service Manager role for the Task Order 2 works on Glossop Road and West Street (including a risk/contingency allowance).

Mott Macdonald have provided a quotation for a further £62,572 to undertake the Service Manager role on the first Task Order through to the revised completion date in the light of the delays referred to above.

Approval is sought for the Mott Macdonald fees described above (total value £286,970).

• Appoint Colas Rail Limited to undertake the Task Order 2 works at a cost of £1,684,648.

• Appoint Mott Macdonald Limited to undertake the Service Manager role at a cost of £286,970.

1. Do Nothing – this option would see no remedial action undertaken leading to further loss of polymer, in turn increasing the likelihood of a road traffic collision and serious injury or fatality, which is clearly unacceptable

2. Appoint Colas Rail Limited to undertake the Task Order 2 works.