Two proponents shortlisted to deliver new WA rail signalling system

The METRONET High Capacity Signalling (HCS) Project take a step forward towards construction with the announcement of two proponents shortlisted to design, supply, build and maintain the new high-capacity signalling system. 

The two shortlisted proponents are: 

• Alstom Transport Australian Pty Ltd and Downer EDI Works Pty Ltd (ADJV) 
• Siemens Mobility Pty Ltd, Siemens Mobility GmbH and Wabtec Control Systems (SafePerth) 

The proponents have been shortlisted following the submission of EOI applications in September last year. The two joint ventures will now progress to the second stage of a Competitive Early Contractor Involvement process where they will prepare more detailed submissions. 

“This announcement brings us one step closer to upgrading our rail network’s signalling and control systems, which will improve the reliability and safety of our network and allow more trains to run more often. 

“With some of our existing systems at the end of their functional life and a major expansion to our passenger rail network on the horizon thanks to METRONET, delivering a new High-Capacity Signalling system will ensure we can continue to service a modern suburban rail system,” Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said. 

The Australian and Western Australian Governments are jointly funding the High Capacity Signalling Project, which will replace Perth’s ageing urban rail network control systems with a more modern, integrated, communications-based train control system. 

In addition to allowing for more trains to run more often, the project is also vital to supporting the significant expansion in passenger rail services that will be delivered through the METRONET program. 

The new high-capacity signalling system will continuously send real-time train data to the future Public Transport Operations Control Centre (PTOCC) that is currently being built in East Perth. The data is going to be used to monitor the speed and location of every train on the railway network. 

The PTOCC is comprised of a network control centre, a central monitoring room and office space for the infrastructure and personnel that will manage day-to-day operations of Perth’s public transport rail network. 

THe High Capacity Signalling Project is going to be delivered in stages to minimise disruption to train operations. 

The contract to undertake works on the project is due to be awarded in 2024, with rollout of the HCS to be carried out over the next 10 years. 

Source: Government of Western Australia – Media Statements; METRONET (1, 2); Infrastructure Magazine; Roads & Infrastructure Australia; Rail Express