The contract covers almost 1,000 pieces of engineering essential for keeping the waterways flowing, from swing bridges, powered locks, pumps and level monitors spread across the network to unique structures like Anderton Boat Lift in Cheshire, Three Mills Lock in London, and the Tees Barrage.
Simon Bamford, asset delivery director at Canal & River Trust, said: "The canals were the engineering masterpieces of their day and, while some of the technology has changed over the years, they still require a dedicated team of engineers to look after them. We're delighted with the way in which AMCO has understood and reflected our values and we look forward to working with them. The contract will play a major part in what we are trying to achieve: ensuring that our waterways are kept open and running smoothly and improving customer service."
The Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, Control and Automation Contract (MEICA for short) will cover maintenance, renewal, upgrades and repairs. It will replace the M&E maintenance and Water & Automation contracts which are currently held by three separate suppliers. By merging the three current contracts the Trust will benefit from major advantages in terms of improved efficiency and customer service.
The contract will be for a period of seven years and will start on 1 April 2017 when the existing contracts expire: the intervening period will be used to plan works for next year.
AMCO managing director Steve Stiff, commented: "We are extremely proud to have secured the national MEICA contract. The Canal & River Trust has been a client we have always wanted to work with. We look forward to establishing a new contract relationship with the Trust and delivering what we believe will be great customer service as well as efficiencies."