Procurement description
The existing Metrolink Supervisory and Controls System (MSCS) was procured in 2008 and it reached the end of its useful life in October 2023. There are two key critical areas that TfGM is currently concerned about:
Obsolescence
An increasing number of sub-components of the MSCS are becoming obsolete. Dealing with obsolescence, in particular, will become more challenging in the coming years as the critical components are no longer supported by the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
TfGM have been progressively securing spares as more of the asset is being identified as obsolete. However, it is anticipated that by circa 2030 the MSCS will start to experience maintenance issues with resultant impact on the operation.
Expandability
TfGM's ambitions for expansion are detailed in the Greater Manchester Transport Strategy 2040 (please see link for more information https://tfgm.com/strategy)
The Integrated Supervisory System (''SS'') introduce into operation in 2012 has never been upgraded despite being significantly expanded beyond what was originally anticipated in 2008. The existing SS is operating using Windows Vista operating system, which is the latest version supported by the Wonderware platform.
As a result, the MSCS is unable to accommodate a further expansion of the Metrolink network or seamless integration of a new and/or renewed asset without undergoing substantial upgrade itself.
Scope of Procurement
TfGM is now looking to replace the existing MSCS with a new generation of the Metrolink Supervisory and Controls System. The purpose of the MSCS is to become vehicle for providing safe, reliable and continuously improving operation of the Metrolink network, whilst supporting TfGM's aspirations for growth and innovation.
The aim of this procurement focuses on achieving two key objectives:
1. The procurement of a long-term 'Technology Partner' who will renew the MSCS assets and continue to support it over the life of the contract. The Technology Partner shall design, procure, install, test and commission new MSCS. However, the engagement of the Technology Partner does not end with the initial deployment of the new MSCS. TfGM is looking for Partner who will progressively continue to:
i. improve the MSCS - as the MSCS is introduced into operation and the functionality of the MSCS is better understood;
ii. modify the MSCS - as the Client's and/or Operator's requirements are evolving over time;
iii. expand the MSCS - as additional infrastructure is being introduced by TfGM
iv. upgrade the MSCS - as per the MSCS requirements themselves; and
v. renew the MSCS through the life of the contract - to enable continuous safe and reliable operation of the Metrolink Network.
Furthermore, the Technology Partner will be required to provide an operational and maintenance support to the future Metrolink Operator(s), as well as support TfGM in its technical development of future Metrolink schemes, including new lines, new stops, upgrade or procurement of new vehicles and others.
2. The procurement of an expandable multi-functional management platform, to allow a range of functions to be managed on the Metrolink network. TfGM requires the Technology Partner to provide an expandable modular multi-functional management platform to replace the current MSCS. The new MSCS shall provide monitoring, control and management (via interfaces as required) of range of functions to be managed on the network. The MSCS shall interface with various other Metrolink systems and sub-system as well as various assets on the Metrolink network to process information relevant to an operational tramway.
The MSCS will require to present this information to those who need to use this information to make decisions in relation to the operation of the tramway. Where required, the MSCS will need to output these commands and relevant data to various other assets and systems (including third party systems).
The MSCS shall also provide automation of functions (where appropriate) in support of operational processes, minimising the amount of input from Metrolink Operator.
As existing systems and assets are replaced, the new ones shall also interface into the MSCS. The MSCS shall be expandable to oversee a range of future assets and systems as required.
Further information is included in the Pre-market engagement pack attached on ProContract.
TfGM is seeking responses from the market to the Questionnaire included in Annex 1 of the Request for Information document. It would be helpful if interested parties would answer as many of the questions as possible as this will assist TfGM with the development of proposals for the way forward.
Please be advised that the information obtained from the responses to the Request for Information may be utilised to facilitate one-on-one meetings with relevant parties. Should TfGM determine the necessity to convene with interested stakeholders, we will communicate further details through ProContract.