Porterbrook formally took over the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre on June 23, saying it plans ‘significant’ investment to upgrade the on-site facilities which include a 3·2 km circular test track and 20 km of secure sidings connected to the national network. ‘Our decision to add this extensive facility into our portfolio means that this site now has firm strategic direction and a secure long-term future’, said Chief Executive Mary Grant.
Network Rail has submitted a Transport & Works Act Order application for the £183·6m project to build Cambridge South station, which would serve the Cambridge Biomedical Campus and undertake associated infrastructure works. The two storey station on the West Anglia Main Line is intended to include a ticket office, lifts, accessible toilets and provide parking spaces for 1 000 bicycles. Track remodelling would allow the provision of two loops to accommodate four platform faces. It is envisaged that work could start in 2022 for opening in 2025.
Law firm Ashurst advised BAI Communications on its 20-year concession agreement to provide mobile phone and data coverage on the London Underground network.
Stadler has awarded Gateshead-based Turbo Power Systems a contract to supply electric converters for the new Tyne & Wear Metro trains. ‘Stadler has pledged to support the regional economy and involve as many northeast or UK-based companies in the new trains project as possible’, explained the train builder’s Project Manager Adrian Wetter.
Transport for London has joined RSSB’s affiliate programme. ‘TfL is no stranger to RSSB and we have worked closely together sharing our expertise for many years’, said TfL’s Chief Health, Safety & Environment Officer Lilli Matson. ‘Formally recognising our collaboration through the affiliate programme is a positive step that will further build on our drive to share knowledge and best practice in safety, health and environment as we help London get back on its feet after the pandemic.’
VolkerRail has saved an average of one day a week during a 10-month project for Chiltern Railways by using eviFile’s digitised workflow software to capture geolocated data-points relating to TPWS, cable routes and access points, reducing the need for e-mails and paper-based storage.
Network Rail has awarded Optilan a contract to supply station information and surveillance systems for Maryland, Manor Park, Seven Kings, Chadwell Heath and Brentwood stations and driver-operated cameras at Shenfield.
