On Monday, September 29, Swietelsky signed a new contract form with ProRail at the Inktpot in Utrecht. With the introduction of this contract form, ProRail starts a long-term, different way of working with the market. From October 1, work will be done with one fixed contractor for several years per area. The area realization contracts in Midden and South Holland represent a first rollout. Swietelsky Rail Benelux has been awarded the area of Midden, which includes all superstructure renewal projects.
From project-based to area-based collaboration
Until now, railway work was tendered per project, requiring each collaboration to be rebuilt anew. The new approach allows for early involvement of contractors. “As a contractor, we are now already included in the planning phase,” says Niek Lentink, CEO of Swietelsky Rail Benelux. “This allows us to develop realistic designs together, optimize the deployment of people and equipment, and better predict the execution.”
Sustainable collaboration and stable market
With this contract form, ProRail aims to create a healthy, stable market. Contractors gain more continuity, allowing them to invest in craftsmanship and equipment. For ProRail, this means a more reliable and efficient execution of the railway tasks. The collaboration is based on equality, transparency, and fair agreements – with attention to realistic prices rather than just the lowest bid.
Symbolic starting signal
The signing on September 29 is not only the official start of the collaboration but also a symbolic moment for a future-proof working method in the railway sector. “The area realization contracts in Midden and South Holland are the first step,” says ProRail. “Together with the contractors, we will test this approach in practice and use the insights gained to further roll out the method.”
