HS2 Ltd Third Party Communications ‘Shadow Operator’ Pre¬-Procurement Market Engagement

The core objective of the Third Party Communications (TPC) Package is to provide third party communication services across HS2’s Phase One and Phase 2a routes, including the provision of: passenger communication systems to support voice and data mobile communications for HS2 customers throughout the HS2 estate, emergency services network (ESN) coverage, station data network (fixed, operational and public Wi-Fi) within HS2 stations and non-rail/ other communication services to external parties utilising HS2 Ltd’s fibre backbone.

HS2 Ltd will undertake a two-stage procurement for the delivery and operation of the TPC Package. The first procurement (expected to be awarded in 2023) will be to design and build the TPC network infrastructure and to act as the Interim Operator managing the infrastructure and providing (through arranging contracts with one or more mobile network operators) ESN and limited voice/ data services principally for the HS2 workforce during the trial and testing stage of the HS2 railway.

The second procurement (expected to be awarded in 2027/28) will be for the appointment of an Operating Partner who will be responsible for operating and commercialising the TPC package once the HS2 railway is operational.

It will be a considerable amount of time before the Operating Partner is appointed. This means that an Operating Partner will not be in place to oversee – and provide commercial input – into the TPC design, construction, and initial operation during the HS2 railway testing stage. HS2 Ltd intends to appoint a Third Party Communications Shadow Telecoms Operator bringing expert telecoms experience to:

• Advise HS2 Ltd on the third party telecommunications design and construction from the perspective of a long term commercially minded Operator;
• Provide HS2 Ltd with an intelligent client function to minimise the risk of information asymmetries between HS2 Ltd and the D&B Contractor;
• Undertake a “Design Review” of the D+B Contractor’s TPC design proposals;
• Help ensure that the TPC package is developed in a manner which is fit for purpose and likely to meet the requirements of the future Operating Partner and MNOs;
• Act as a ‘guiding mind’ on the long-term technological and commercial viability of the infrastructure being delivered. This is expected to include consideration of future commercial opportunities which the Operating Partner may be able to take advantage of and advice on how the delivery of TPC may be enhanced to maximise future investment opportunities and commercial return.
• Provide oversight of the Interim Operator’s negotiations with ESN/MNO for the provision of interim operations and ESN services in a manner that supports the long-term commercial interests of HS2 Ltd and the future operating partner;
• Facilitate a smooth transition of the TPC Package from the Interim Operator to the appointed Operating Partner;
• Support HS2 Ltd with considering and negotiating any contractual changes where deemed necessary to meet HS2 Ltd's overall requirements and drive value for money outcomes.

HS2 Ltd would like to issue a pre-market engagement questionnaire and engage with your organisation in order to:

a. Provide potential suppliers with an overview on the scope and procurement approach;

b. Give potential suppliers the opportunity to give feedback on HS2 Ltd.'s intended approach;

c. Test market appetite to bid for the opportunity. Additional information: A market engagement questionnaire will be provided.

Please return your completed questionnaire via email to HS2 Ltd Supply Chain Team at [email protected] by noon 06-10-2021.