This is the first package of work to be procured for the £65m elevated mass transit system build.

Two further procurement opportunities will also begin next year, as HS2 invites suppliers to tender for the contract to design and supply a transport system and the 25-year transport operation and maintenance contract.

Market engagement will also continue throughout 2024 as HS2 steps up its search for a supplier to deliver the APM’s infrastructure components.

Once complete the transit will transport thousands of passengers, every hour, between Interchange Station, the National Exhibition Centre , Birmingham International Railway Station, and Birmingham Airport.

The £2m enabling contract is being procured through the government’s Crown Commercial Services Framework, which enables registered suppliers to bid for the work.

The APM enabling works programme includes topographical surveys, ground investigations and utility surveys.

Sean Butler, HS2’s senior project manager the APM, said the enabling works would take around 12 months to complete the works, paving the way for main construction which includes four stops, a 2.2km long viaduct, and a maintenance facility.

Automated People Mover station at Solihull

The successful bidder for the enabling works contract will deliver a unique programme of work that spans the entire route the APM will follow, crossing the M42, West Coast Mainline, Birmingham Airport and Pendigo Lake.

Findings from the ground investigation works, topographical and bathymetric surveys will help to inform the existing design for the APM and future works packages.