UK: High speed rail project promoter HS2 Ltd has awarded Voestalpine Turnout Technology UK a contract to supply switches and crossings for Phase 1 and 2a of the future line.
The contract announced on March 7 includes the design, manufacture and delivery of around 180 S&C units for installation between London and the connection with the West Coast Main Line at Crewe. These will be designed for operation at speeds of up to 360 km/h, or 230 km/h when diverging.
It also includes around 77 rail expansion devices for track on viaducts and bridges, and 70 lower-speed switches and crossings for the depots at Washwood Heath and Calvert.
The design and supply element of the contract is worth around £210m, and there is also a 20-year technical support agreement.
High Speed 2 will predominantly use slab track. HS2 Ltd is running a separate procurement process to award four Track Systems contracts for the design and installation of the track and co-ordination of construction logistics, including integration and installation of the S&C.
