The system wide trackwork and tunneling M&E fit-out works were due to be let separately, but Crossrail has combined the work into a single contract in the hope of finding savings.

Andy Mitchell, Crossrail Programme Director said: “As the new Crossrail tunnels are completed, work will get underway to fit the tunnels out with the necessary track and overhead power equipment to enable the railway to operate.

“Such is the scale and complexity of the task it will take several years to complete the fit-out works with people working around the clock to complete the job.”

The new Crossrail tunnels will also require over 50 ventilation fans, 40km of walkways, 60 drainage pumps, 30km of fire mains as well as lighting throughout the entire length.

The fit-out works will be carried out within the entire tunnelled section of the Crossrail route between Royal Oak, Pudding Mill Lane and Plumstead Portals.

It is envisaged that the selected contractor will start fit-out simultaneously from both Royal Oak and Plumstead portals.

Contract will be awarded in late 2012, providing the chosen contractor with sufficient time to undertake detailed design and planning before fit-out work commences in 2014.

The project is scheduled to take 70 months to complete.

Firms must complete PQQs by 3 November. The documents are found on the Crossrail eSourcing Portal www.crossrail.bravosolution.co.uk