Metroselskabet has released two major tenders for the first phase of Copenhagen’s new M5 metro line, representing a combined value of approximately €1.35bn.
This development moves the M5 project into its next stage, targeting increased metro connections across Denmark’s capital through new tunnelling and transport infrastructure. The new metro line is expected to open in 2036.
The contract for civil works has been published with a value of around €800m. It covers the construction of two bored tunnels totalling approximately 7km. The works also include five underground stations and one elevated station.
Around 2km of viaduct sections are part of the scope, along with two underground crossovers and five cross passages. The contract also contains a ramp, a terminal shaft, an elevated junction, short sections of embankment, and a control and maintenance centre.
The civil works tender follows three years of market dialogue, with Metroselskabet incorporating feedback on contract models and risk sharing. The tender documents introduce a target price model for mechanical and electrical installations and architectural works.
Additionally, the contract sets binding carbon emissions reduction requirements, reflecting a focus on sustainability during construction.
The second contract, which is focused on the transport system, is valued at around €550m. This tender covers the provision of 14 metro trains, signalling and control systems, platform screen doors, traction power supply, passenger information systems, SCADA, radio communications and other associated systems.
Metroselskabet executive director Mikkel Kjær Jensen said: “With the publication of these tenders, we are taking an important step forward in the development of M5. The new line will tie the city together even more closely and create stronger links between both existing neighbourhoods and new urban development areas.”
The new trains and technology are intended to support service delivery across the expanded network. The requirements also include carbon emissions management for the control and maintenance centre.
The transport systems procurement uses a competitive dialogue process, allowing bidders to discuss proposed solutions with Metroselskabet before final submissions. According to Metroselskabet, this approach is designed to facilitate market access and ensure strong competition.
The entire M5 metro line will eventually feature nine stations across two phases, serving established areas as well as new urban development zones such as Kløverparken, Quintus, Refshaleøen, and Lynetteholm.
The first phase, included in the current tenders, will deliver six stations and related infrastructure.
Metroselskabet has underlined the importance of the project in increasing metro capacity across the network, particularly on the heavily-used harbour crossing, which currently sees high rush-hour demand.
Interchange options are planned for several key locations along the M5. At Copenhagen Central Station, passengers will be able to transfer between M5, the M3 and M4 metro lines, as well as regional, long-distance, and S-trains.
Additional interchange points at DR Byen and Lergravsparken will provide connections to metro lines M1 and M2 respectively.
