The ACT Government will choose from four consortia to build the first stage of Canberra’s controversial light rail network, says the Minister for Capital Metro, Simon Corbell.

“Four private-sector consortia, consisting of local, national and international companies, have submitted an expression of interest,” says Corbell

The expressions of interest come despite the Liberal opposition’s vow to tear up the contracts if it wins the 2016 ACT election.

“This is a great result for Canberra,” says Corbell.

“It demonstrates the private sector’s high level of interest in the project and confidence in conducting business with the ACT Government.

“It is pleasing to see so many nationally and internationally respected companies are interested in becoming involved in this important project for the national capital.”

Expressions of interest for the Capital Metro project gave been received from:

• Canberra Metro
• ACTIVATE
• Connecting Canberra
• CANGO

“Attracting private-sector interest of this scale supports the ACT Government’s vision to boost our local economy and build a modern, dynamic city with a strong urban core,” says Corbell.

The expression of interest closed on December 19. A shortlist will now be selected to progress to the request for proposals stage before a single private-sector partner is engaged to finance, design, construct and operate the light rail service from the city to Gungahlin.

Shortlisting for the request for proposal stage is expected to occur in the first quarter of 2015, with the successful consortium engaged and work commencing in 2016.