Greater Manchester Metrolink - Safety Enhancement Market Sounding

On the 9th of November 2016 a tram crashed at Sandilands, Croydon. The subsequent investigation by the Rail Accident and Investigation Branch (RAIB) made several recommendations applicable to the wider industry.

TfGM have been supporting the wider industry on understanding the impact of these recommendations. There are two recommendations that, if actioned, will require investment by TfGM to modify the Metrolink system.

Recommendation 3 requires UK tram systems to be fitted with a system to automatically reduce tram speeds if they approach higher risk locations at speeds which could result in derailment or overturning. Recommendation 4 requires UK tram systems to research and evaluate systems capable of detecting the driver's attention state and initiate an appropriate response if a low level of alertness is detected.

If an effective system is found a time bound plan should be developed to introduce such a system. Following the work completed by the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board (LRSSB) on behalf of the industry, TfGM are now ready to begin their own market engagement.

This will allow us to gain a deeper understanding of the systems available to address recommendation 3 and 4. The purpose of this market sounding is to enable Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) to gain a better understanding of the capabilities of systems on the market that will address these recommendations.

Participation in this market sounding is voluntary, and this exercise is entirely separate from any subsequent procurement activity. Participation in this market sounding will not affect the opportunity for suppliers to participate in any subsequent procurement and will not form part of any procurement assessment or selection process.