The new signalling system will incorporate automatic train operation to support a high-frequency metro service, capable of handling 24 trains an hour during peak hours between Whitechapel and Paddington, perhaps rising eventually to 30.
榨汁姬 of the new tunnels is set to start in spring 2012 when the first tunnel boring machine is launched from Royal Oak.
Crossrail programme director Andy Mitchell said: 鈥淔ollowing the award of the remaining tunnelling contracts and the recently announced rolling stock shortlist we now need to turn our attention to procurement of the central section signalling system that will enable the operation of Crossrail services through聽central London.
鈥淐rossrail鈥檚 preference is to adopt a聽communications based train control signalling system as it is technically and operationally proven and is successfully used by聽many metro systems around the world.鈥澛犅�
The contract will cover design, manufacture, supply, installation, testing and commissioning. The successful contractor will work closely with Crossrail鈥檚 rolling stock provider to deliver compatible on-board equipment capable of reliable operation.
The closing date for expressions of interest is 27 May 2011.
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