Copenhagen launches €1.35bn tender process for first phase of M5 metro line

Metroselskabet has launched the procurement process for the first phase of Copenhagen’s M5 metro line, publishing two major contracts worth a combined €1.35bn covering civil works and transport systems for the new route. The tenders represent a major milestone for the standalone M5 line, which is scheduled to open in 2036 and will expand the Danish capital’s metro network by connecting existing communities with major new urban development areas, including Østhavnen, Refshaleøen and Lynetteholm. The procurement comprises an estimated €800m civil works contract and a €550m transport systems contract. The civil works package includes the construction of approximately 7km of twin bored tunnels, six stations, crossovers, cross passages, a terminal shaft, ramp structures and around 2km of elevated viaduct. The transport systems contract covers the supply of 14 metro trains together with signalling, platform screen doors, traction power, communications and passenger information systems, plus the new control and maintenance centre. The first phase of M5 will feature five underground stations and one elevated station, with interchange connections to the existing network at Copenhagen Central Station (M3 and M4), DR Byen (M1) and Lergravsparken (M2). Metroselskabet said the procurement strategy has been developed following an extensive three-year market engagement programme with contractors and suppliers to improve project delivery, refine technical requirements and select contract models designed to encourage competition. “We are taking an important step forward in the development of M5,” said Mikkel Kjær Jensen, Executive Director of Metroselskabet. “The new line will tie the city together even more closely and create stronger links between both existing neighbourhoods and new urban development areas.” Both contracts will be delivered as Design & Build packages, with the transport systems contract procured through a competitive dialogue procedure and the civil works contract using a negotiated procedure. A key feature of the procurement is a revised approach to risk allocation. Metroselskabet will introduce a geotechnical baseline, under which the client will retain part of the ground condition risk, alongside a pain/gain mechanism allowing both client and contractor to share cost overruns and savings according to an agreed formula. The civil works contract also introduces a binding requirement for CO₂ emissions reduction, while carbon performance has also been incorporated into the transport systems procurement, including requirements for the control and maintenance facility. Metroselskabet said the revised procurement model reflects increasing competition for major infrastructure projects across Denmark and Europe. “We believe these adjustments are important in a market where the number of major construction, infrastructure and railway projects in Denmark and across Europe is currently rising significantly, and where collaborative models and risk-sharing are playing an increasingly important role,” Jensen said. The procurement is being conducted through the European Union’s TED (Tenders Electronic Daily) portal. The pre-qualification phase opened on 29 June, with applications due by 25 August 2026. The formal tender period will run from 16 September to 27 December 2026. When completed, the full M5 line will comprise nine stations delivered in two phases, providing additional cross-harbour capacity for Copenhagen’s growing metro network while serving both established districts on Amager and new waterfront developments. If you are a potential bidder for one of the upcoming M5 contracts and have procurement-related questions, please contact Metroselskabet via the procurement portal Byggeprojekt.dk. Comments: