Infrastructure Improvement Framework
Framework Description
Transport for London's Infrastructure Improvement Framework, also called the Infrastructure Renewals Framework, covers multi-disciplinary infrastructure and construction projects, from early contractor involvement through design and construction. TfL appointed three contractors: Amey Rail, Costain and Dragados. The framework is valued at £700 million excluding VAT and runs from 11 June 2026 to 2 July 2028, with an option to extend by up to two years to 2 July 2030.
Context & Use Case
TfL expects to deliver the Elephant & Castle and South Kensington station capacity upgrades, trams rolling stock replacement power and depot works, and its step-free access programme through the framework. Each contractor is allocated a workbank of projects under equitable allocation principles, with mini-competition reserved for exceptions, using an early contractor involvement and multi-stage NEC approach.
Scope of Services
Early contractor involvement Design and construction of major station enhancements Station capacity upgrades Step-free access schemes Trams power, depot and infrastructure works
Lots
Single lot
Who Can Apply
The three main contractor places are filled, so no other contractor can join until TfL re-tenders, likely around July 2028, or July 2030 if extended. Specialist subcontractors and designers can still win work through the supply chains of Amey Rail, Costain and Dragados.
Buyer Benefits
Early contractor involvement lets TfL bring the contractor in while designs are still forming, so buildability and cost are tested before commitment. A multi-stage NEC approach spreads risk across stages, and a small panel of large contractors gives TfL capacity for complex, live-railway station work.
Next Steps
Specialists should approach the supply chain teams at Amey Rail, Costain and Dragados with relevant station, step-free access or live-environment experience. Main contractors aiming for the next round should plan for a re-tender before 2 July 2028, or 2 July 2030 if the extensions are used, and follow the framework's procurement record on Find a Tender.
How Athena Can Help
Athena can help specialist subcontractors and designers win supply-chain packages from the three main contractors, with our tender writing and pricing support making each subcontract bid clear on live-station delivery and step-free access experience.
For contractors eyeing the re-tender, we offer early bid/no-bid planning and can build a 6 to 12 month pipeline of transport infrastructure frameworks so your station references, accreditations and NEC delivery evidence are current when TfL goes back to market.
