London Underground (LU) had been carrying out a major upgrade programme of its sub-surface lines (Hammersmith and City, District, Metropolitan and Circle lines). The scope included new trains and upgraded signalling systems. The programme of works for sub-surface lines had progressed to the point where the client teams were able to look at extending the work scope to include the deep tube lines (Piccadilly, Bakerloo, Northern, Jubilee and Waterloo and City). A contract had been awarded to Siemens for supply of the new trains. The contract for replacement signalling systems was being tendered.

An off-shore company, recognised for its expertise in the aerospace and medical equipment industries, had decided to establish its brand in the UK rail market. It had chosen to compete for parts of the LU deep tube modernisation programme. Geoff Miles was brought into the contractor’s bid team to provide project management expertise and guidance as well as specialist input for signalling systems design and installation activity.