Architects, engineers and urban planners among those sought to work on controversial £32bn rail scheme

Architects, engineers, urban planners and other consultants are being sought to work on the High Speed 2 rail project in a package of work worth up to £350m.

Government client High Speed 2 Ltd is putting together a framework agreement covering the professional disciplines, which also include technical testing and analysis services, and will be used to work up designs for HS2 if the controversial £32bn scheme moves forward.

Transport secretary Philip Hammond is considering the findings of the consultation into the rail link between London, the midlands and the north of England and is due to decide on the future of the plans this year.

Subject to the minister’s approval, a Hybrid Bill would be introduced in Parliament by autumn next year and seek to obtain Royal Assent by 2015.

HS2 Ltd is currently also seeking a development partner to provide support the Hybrid Bill and the manage the parliamentary process.

The  professional services framework will be split into four clear disciplines.

Thes are: civil engineering and structural design at a cost of £160m-£200m, railway systems design services at a cost of £25-£45m, environmental services at a cost of £50-£75m and land referencing services at a cost of £15m-£30m.

For more information view the tender here