Network Rail has finalised its new rail supply contracts, securing almost 450,000 tonnes of rail for the next five years, through to 2030. The significant agreements have been awarded to British Steel, Saarstahl Rail, and Voestalpine, with ArcelorMittal also positioned to provide supplies on an ad-hoc basis.
These new contracts are set to “go-live” from 1st July. The five-year agreements will specifically entail:
- British Steel supplying a minimum of 337,000 tonnes of long and short rail.
- Saarstahl Rail providing a minimum of 78,000 tonnes of long and short rail.
- Voestalpine delivering a minimum of 8,500 tonnes of switch rail.
Additionally, all these suppliers, along with ArcelorMittal, are part of a zero-value framework, enabling ad-hoc supply as required to meet Network Rail’s evolving needs.
Clive Berrington, Network Rail’s Group Director for Railway Business Services, commented on the key agreements: “British Steel remain extremely competitive in the provision of rail and we are delighted that they will remain our main supplier in the years ahead.”
Mr. Berrington further added: “Our European suppliers are an important part of our rail supply chain both for specialist items, and to ensure security of supply.”
These contracts underscore Network Rail’s strategic approach to securing essential materials for the maintenance and development of Britain’s railway network, balancing domestic supply with international expertise to ensure both volume and specialised requirements are met.
