Q & A - MELBOURNE METRO TUNNEL PROJECT

crucial element to inform decisionmaking on project design and construction methodology .

Melbourne Metro Rail Authority ( MMRA ) will partner with companies with knowledge and experience in managing complex projects in busy and constrained urban environments .

As part of the Early Works package to prepare key sites for the Tunnel and Stations PPP works , up to 100 utilities including gas , power and telecommunications services will be relocated and protected later this year . Work on the excavation of station shafts adjacent to Swanston Street will begin next year following the conclusion of the Environment Effects Statement ( EES ) process currently underway and formal planning approval for the project . The PPP contract for the Metro Tunnel is valued up to $ 6 billion and includes the excavation and fit-out of the twin nine-kilometre tunnels and five underground stations .

Work will begin in 2018 , with the aim for the Metro Tunnel to be completed and operational by 2026 .

Shortlisted bidders for the Tunnel and Stations PPP have been selected :

• Continuum Victoria comprising ACCIONA Infrastructure , Ferrovial Agroman , Honeywell , Downer EDI and Plenary Origination

• Cross Yarra Partnership comprising Lendlease Engineering , John Holland , Bouygues Construction and Capella Capital

• Moving Melbourne Together comprising Pacific Partnerships , CPB

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