The first major phases of the long-delayedDublin MetroLink project have been put out to tender with a headline price tag of almost €8bn, writes Garreth MacNamee. But Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) insists the final bill is expected to be much lower. TII has invited bids for the first two contracts that will deliver the core infrastructure of Ireland's first metro system, including tunnels, stations, track alignment works and major structures such as bridges and viaducts. While the combined contract notice value stands at a maximum of €7.9bn, TII said that the figure includes allowances for inflation and risk and it expects tenders to come in well below that sum. The move was described as a pivotal milestone in the delivery of the rail link between Swords and Dublin city centre, with MetroLink programme director Dr Seán Sweeney calling it a significant step forward. TII chief executive Lorcan O'Connor said the process will identify the companies that will carry out the main civil engineering works on the project. The procurement process begins with a pre-qualification stage to assess bidders' capability before a shortlist is invited to submit full tenders. MetroLink has previously floated the idea of compensating unsuccessful bidders, though no deal has yet been agreed with the Government. The first contract covers the southern section, from Charlemont to Northwood, and includes deep-bored tunnels and major underground stations, some of up to 35 metres. This section carries a contract notice value of almost €4.6bn, excluding VAT. The MetroLink has gone to tender at €7.9bn. The second contract covers the northern stretch from Northwood to Estuary and includes viaducts, park-and-ride facilities, a Dardistown depot and stations serving Swords. This is valued at €3.3bn, excluding VAT. Applicants can bid for one or both contracts but can only be awarded one. (Pic: File)