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UGL partners up for Newcastle integrated transport deal

Revitalising Newcastle. Photo: Revitalising Newcastle

Rollingstock business UGL has signed on as light rail maintenance contractor in a joint bid with public transport operator Transit Systems, for the Integrated Service Offering operations contract in Newcastle.

The contract, being administered by Transport for NSW, aims to appoint a single operator to manage integrated transport services in the growing city.

It is part of the government’s broader strategy which includes the development of a light rail line through Newcastle, replacing the heavy rail line, which was closed at the end of 2014.

UGL and Transit Systems announced their intentions to put together a joint bid for the contract on Friday morning.

If successful, Transit Systems would take on the lead operational role in delivering the integrated transport network, and UGL would be responsible for the specialised maintenance requirements of the light rail infrastructure and vehicles.

Transit Systems is a global bus operator, with a stable of nearly 2000 operating buses across four Australian states, as well as in London, Cambridge and Singapore.

The company’s chief executive, Clint Feuerherdt, said a partnership with UGL made Transit Systems a strong contender for the Newcastle contract.

“Our business was founded on the Central Coast of NSW,” Feuerherdt said, “and it would be a great honour to return with the benefit of all that we have learned both in Australia and overseas.”

UGL boss Ross Taylor said the company had a long history in Newcastle, adding it was important the city continues to invest in its transport system and infrastructure.

“UGL has been a mainstay of the Newcastle transport industry for over 100 years with our history tracing back to the formation of A. Goninan & Co in 1899,” Taylor said.

“With a proven commitment to local jobs, skills investment and capability development we are pleased to be part of an Australian team ready to deliver this important program for Newcastle and NSW.”

Feuerherdt said there was an opportunity for his company “to bring a global transport network of experience to the Newcastle region, and to review and improve the service offerings for the community, for tax payers and for business”.

“By successfully expanding into London and Singapore, we have proven that our public transport philosophy works, that we are one of the best in the world at delivering a commuter system that appeals to Government, and most importantly, to the passenger,” he said.

“We are incredibly passionate about improving the appeal of public transport and there is no company more experienced at delivering successful transitions, improved scheduling and cost-effective, relevant services.