Network Rail Eastern region announces new partners for infrastructure framework

Arup and SYSTRA, in a 50/50 joint venture (JV) with strategic delivery partner Skanska, have been awarded a position on Network Rail’s Eastern Region Development and Design Partnership Framework (DDPF), worth £300 million.

The framework, set to span five years with the potential for a three-year extension, will focus on delivering multi-disciplinary design and development services. Key projects include the Northern Powerhouse Rail (NPR) portfolio and potentially part of the integrated transport strategy which the government announced in January.

Arup and SYSTRA bring significant experience to the framework, having contributed to the West and East Alliances of the TransPennine Route Upgrade and the East Coast Main Line Power Supply Upgrade. Skanska has expertise in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects such as HS2.

As part of the framework, Network Rail has also announced Amey OWR, a joint venture between Atkins Realis UK and Arcadis Consulting and another between Mott MacDonald and WSP UK as fellow partners in the framework.

Jeremy Winsper, head of programme development (NPR) at Network Rail, said: “Our new Development and Design Partnership Framework marks a major step forward in delivering key rail projects across the North and East.

“By working with strategic partners over the long term, we'll drive innovation, improve efficiency and deliver better value as we turn the vision of Northern Powerhouse Rail and the Integrated Rail Plan into reality."

Phil Harrison, UKIMEA Rail Leader at Arup, emphasised the long-term impact of the initiative: “Our JV will help Network Rail create a future-ready transport system for Northern England, offering more sustainable travel choices through well-designed schemes. This programme will deliver quicker, more frequent rail services; connect people to more job opportunities, and improve connectivity between key northern cities creating an impact for generations to come.”

Nick Salt, Chief Executive of SYSTRA Limited added: “This is a significant strategic placement for SYSTRA, Arup, and Skanska, putting us at the forefront of rail improvements for the region.”

The framework is designed to eliminate individual and protracted procurement processes and is similar to the Southern Renewals Enterprise, a framework for the southern region which began in 2024.