The contract allows Network Rail to continue design and advance works on behalf of Transport Scotland prior to taking on a full project delivery role. BAM Nuttall’s £2m sees it working on designs of bridges, tunnels and stations.
Network Rail will also proceed with ground stabilisation works in the Midlothian section of the route where remediation of former mine works is required.
The contract includes an option to continue into the delivery phase once design is completed. While the preparatory works are under way, Network Rail continues to work with Transport Scotland with a view to taking on the delivery of the project.
Network Rail Scotland route managing director David Simpson said: “Network Rail is pleased to be involved with the Borders Railway and this contract to deliver the design phase takes us and the Scottish government one step closer to re-establishing a railway to the Scottish Borders.”
Transport minister Keith Brown said: "The Borders Railway project is a sign of the Scottish government's commitment to developing rail services and I am extremely pleased to see Network Rail progressing preparatory works with their award of the design contract. This is an important project for the region and will help secure jobs and provide opportunities for communities along the route.”
BAM Nuttall director David Belsham added: “BAM is delighted to be selected to continue our long association with the Borders Railway project. We have a proud heritage of delivering major infrastructure projects in Scotland and are excited by the prospect of continuing our close collaboration with Network Rail and the local community through this next important phase.”
The Borders Railway will reconnect the Scottish Borders to the railway network for the first time in more than 40 years. Travelling through Midlothian, the project will see seven new stations delivered along the 35 mile route - four in Midlothian and three in the Scottish Borders.
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