TfGM Eyes Strategic Metrolink Partnership to Drive Future Growth
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has rolled out a fresh call for a visionary strategic partner to steer the Metrolink system into its next era.
Slated to replace the existing operations and maintenance contract, known as MOMA, when it wraps up in July 2027, this new agreement, dubbed MOMA‑2, could shape the future of the UK’s largest light‑rail network for up to 12 years.
Strategic Scope and Financial Stakes
TfGM has kicked off the procurement process for a sweeping new contract valued at approximately £1.6 billion, potentially stretching to £1.92 billion including VAT, over an 11‑ to 12‑year tenure.
This selection isn’t just about keeping trams running. The successful provider must:
- Maintain and renew core infrastructure (track, overhead wiring, depots, trams)
- Produce a leap in asset management to boost capacity and prolong service life
- Support TfGM in delivering future capital works, such as new stops, next‑generation trams, control systems, and network extensions
What’s on the Table and What’s at Stake
With Metrolink currently boasting 147 trams, over 100 km of track, 99 stops, and handling upwards of 46 million passenger journeys a year, the scale is enormous.
Sources vary slightly, some place Metrolink’s annual ridership closer to 42 million journeys (2023/24), while recent figures reach 46 million. Regardless, the numbers underscore the system’s vital role across Greater Manchester.
Procurement Roadmap & Industry Engagement
TfGM’s procurement strategy is comprehensive:
- Market Engagement: A preliminary engagement notice dropped in May 2025, inviting suppliers to take part in a market sounding exercise, including a live event held on 10 June.
- One‑to‑One Workshops: From a shortlist of up to 10 suppliers, one‑to‑one discussions are being arranged to refine feedback.
- Governance & Oversight: A formal cabinet-level report presented the case for reworking MOMA’s structure, TfGM seeks more control over service delivery and asset management while maintaining accountability and expanding capacity.
- Timeline: Decisions on contract award are expected by mid‑2026, ahead of the contract activation in July 2027.
Why It Matters: Priorities & Vision
This isn’t just another contracting exercise, it’s a strategic moment for Greater Manchester and the broader Bee Network vision. Key objectives include:
- Seamless Integration with buses, bikes, trams, and potentially heavy‑rail via tram‑train conversions
- Next‑Generation Infrastructure, including modernised signals, electric systems, and control technologies
- Sustainability & Efficiency, as part of the region’s push toward net‑zero transport options
- Customer First Minding, ensuring service improvements reflect commuter needs and expectations
Danny Vaughan, Chief Network Officer at TfGM, emphasised: “This is a significant opportunity for suppliers to help shape how we deliver the next generation of Metrolink and rail accessibility infrastructure across Greater Manchester. We’re looking for innovative, efficient and collaborative approaches that will support our ambitions for a world‑class, integrated Bee Network.”
The Future, Bright and Rolling Onward
This procurement marks more than a contractual turnover, it’s a strategic pivot toward a fully integrated, future‑ready transport network with bold ambitions. Greater Manchester’s commitment to expanding capacity, enhancing sustainability, and putting passengers first positions Metrolink as a flagship of modern public transport.
Here’s to a future that’s connected, sustainable, and defined by smart partnerships.
