The Government has been given the go ahead for a new railway station to be built in Cambridge. Work has already begun on the 4-platform, fully accessible station based at Cambridge Biomedical Campus in the south of the city. The Government has earmarked £200 million worth of funding for the
Heritage bridge works specialist Spencer Group has been praised for its work to completely refurbish and rebuild one of the world’s oldest suspension bridges. Spencer Group has completed a programme of essential works to preserve Union Chain Bridge linking England and Scotland, which is more than 200 years old. The
Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) is reminding passengers travelling along the rail line between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York to plan their journeys ahead of time, as nine days of major upgrades are due to take place from 17-25 June 2023 at Morley station. Over nine days, engineers working on the
Signify, the world leader in lighting, has equipped Dublin Port Tunnel in Ireland, an iconic infrastructure spanning 9km, with energy-efficient LED lighting for all its 1800 light points in the tunnel. The upgraded lighting has achieved up to 60% reduction in electricity use (based on 2022 rates), or the equivalent
7 June 2023 announced as date for first passenger service between Picardy Place and Newhaven as Pilrig Wheels installed. Passenger services on the new tram route to Newhaven are scheduled start at 12pm on 7 June 2023, it was announced today (Thursday, 25 May). The route, which has been under
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has appointed leading rolling stock engineering consultancy DB ESG to deliver its tram safety improvement programme. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) recommended that light rail networks deliver programmes to prevent the risk of serious accidents from tram over-speeding or driver inattention following the tragic
Aggregate Industries has secured a place as one of the contractors to provide surfacing works on highways across Blackburn and Darwen. The leading construction materials supplier, which has its regional Northern Office at Hindley, Wigan, was successful in securing a place on Lot 1 Surfacing and Civils Works Framework for
Work to renovate the Beverley Station 130-year-old footbridge which closed due to its rotting wooden canopy has begun ahead of its reopening later this year. Engineers began work to strengthen the cast iron structure of the footbridge at Beverley Station, following its closure in September. Network Rail’s North and East
During the second week of May, Railtex, the International Exhibition of Railway Equipment, Systems and Services, ended after three days of flourishing business. From 9 – 11 May 2023, over 2,600 trade visitors came to Birmingham to discover the latest innovations, products, and services from all areas of railway technology.
Rail infrastructure specialist Spencer Group is making significant progress on the construction of a £26.5 million station in South Leeds. Situated between Morley and Cottingley, the White Rose Rail Station will be located on the main trans-Pennine route to Manchester via Huddersfield. It will be a two-platform station providing improved
The Government has been given the go ahead for a new railway station to be built in Cambridge. Work has already begun on the 4-platform, fully accessible station based at Cambridge Biomedical Campus in the south of the city. The Government has earmarked £200 million worth of funding for the project which is due to be completed in 2025. The construction of the station is expected to create 300 new jobs and when completed, will provide links to Stansted Airport and the Eurostar. It’s expected to receive 1.8 million passengers a year. Unveiling the plans, Rail Minister Huw Merriman said: “This brand-new station will not only benefit local passengers but deliver a major boost to the entire city, improving connectivity to a world-leading academic hub while unlocking local business and growth opportunities across the region. “This is just another step in our efforts to create a thriving, well-connected, passenger-focused rail network to support communities for generations to come.” Reacting to the announcement, Katie Frost, Network Rail’s route director for Anglia, said: “It’s an exciting time for the railway in Cambridgeshire with a green light to deliver a new station that will serve the vitally important and growing biomedical campus. “Rail continues to be an environmentally sustainable form of transport and I know the minister’s announcement will be welcomed by the customers and communities we serve across Cambridgeshire and beyond.” One of the main beneficiaries of the project, Kristin-Anne Rutter, Executive Director at Cambridge Biomedical Campus Limited, said: “We are delighted that the Cambridge Biomedical Campus is to get its own railway station in less than 2 years’ time. Better public transport links will be critical in fulfilling our vision of a more sustainable campus. “Currently, there are around 5 times as many visits to the site as there are car parking spaces. We have to find ways of making it easier for the thousands of staff, NHS patients and visitors arriving daily to get here without needing to use a car. “This is a campus dedicated to improving human health, so anything that has the potential to cut air pollution and take pressure off our local roads is also very welcome. Coupled with the recent approval of the East-West Rail route directly linking Oxford with the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, we believe we can create a successful yet sustainable health and life sciences cluster that can both grow the economy and save lives.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Heritage bridge works specialist Spencer Group has been praised for its work to completely refurbish and rebuild one of the world’s oldest suspension bridges. Spencer Group has completed a programme of essential works to preserve Union Chain Bridge linking England and Scotland, which is more than 200 years old. The crossing over the River Tweed from Horncliffe in Northumberland to Fishwick in Berwickshire has a single span of 449ft (137m) and was the longest wrought iron suspension bridge in the world when it opened in 1820. Union Chain Bridge, which is both a Grade I listed building in England and a Grade A listed building in Scotland, is credited with being a catalyst for bridge innovation. It influenced the design of many other famous structures and remains the world’s oldest suspension bridge still carrying traffic. A funding bid was submitted to the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) by Northumberland County Council, Scottish Borders Council, Museums Northumberland and community group the Friends of the Union Chain Bridge, amid concerns about the condition of the bridge. Following the successful bid, Spencer Group was appointed by Northumberland County Council to dismantle the bridge and carry out a complete refurbishment and rebuild. A key element of the project was to ensure modifications were in keeping with the historical significance of the bridge. This included restoring, rather than replacing, the suspension chains and using the same type of stone to repair masonry work on the bridge’s two towers. Ted Cawthorne, Honorary Treasurer of the Friends of the Union Chain Bridge, which was formed in 2014 and has more than 700 members, said: “It’s been an incredible job by Spencer Group and we’re absolutely delighted to have the bridge back. It’s a vital link between the communities on either side. “The bridge is an important part of the local scene, so we’re very pleased to have it back fully installed and in use again. “It looks wonderful and even more elegant than it did before. There are some differences that have been made during the restoration, with some necessary modern interventions, but that’s just a sign of this remarkable bridge moving with the times. “It’s a terrific achievement and it means a great deal to us to have it restored and fit for use for another 150-200 years. “The remarkable thing is that many of the original components are still intact, which means they will be 350-400-years-old by the time it might need another restoration.” Hull-based Spencer Group worked closely with the Friends of the Union Chain Bridge, along with other community groups, the two councils and Museums Northumberland to keep them informed and updated throughout the delivery of the project. Mr Cawthorne said: “Spencer Group have been fantastic and have engaged with us every step of the way. We couldn’t have asked for more. “It’s been a privilege to have them in the community and working with us. They’ve been marvellous and they’ve really integrated into the community. “The team has been very approachable and all of them have been very friendly as well.” Union Chain Bridge is only accessible to one vehicle at a time due to its restricted width. It previously had a weight restriction of two tonnes but, following the restoration and rebuild, this has been increased to three tonnes. Spencer Group also remodelled the English and Scottish approach roads to incorporate parking for visitors to the bridge, which is accessible to both vehicles and pedestrians and is a popular tourist attraction. Joe DiMauro, Engineering Director for Spencer Bridge Engineering, said: “It’s been a privilege and an honour for us to carry out this crucial heritage project to preserve such a historical structure for future generations. “It’s been a long journey, from the initial planning through to removing the whole structure, refurbishing all the components, and completely rebuilding it. “It’s been incredible to have been part of the project from start to finish and it feels like a great achievement now that it’s complete.” For more information about Spencer Group’s bridge works expertise and the projects it has delivered, visit www.thespencergroup.co.uk/our-work/bridges Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) is reminding passengers travelling along the rail line between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York to plan their journeys ahead of time, as nine days of major upgrades are due to take place from 17-25 June 2023 at Morley station. Over nine days, engineers working on the multi-billion-pound Transpennine Route Upgrade will start to demolish the old platforms, construct new ones, realign tracks and activate a track turn-back (which allows trains to turn around) and re-control signals to Network Rail’s rail operating centre in York. For the majority of the nine days, railway diversionary routes as well as rail replacement buses will keep passengers moving, however, there will be significant impact over the first two days of the upgrades (17-18) as engineers complete additional work in Huddersfield, affecting the main diversionary route. During this time, no trains will run between Huddersfield and Leeds and all services will be replaced by buses. Sarah Thompson, Sponsor on TRU said: ” We’re really excited to start the next phase of upgrades at Morley which take us one step closer to a fully accessible station”. “However, for us to safely complete these upgrades, we do need to stop trains from running via their usual route, so I’d urge anybody travelling between 17-25 June to check ahead and plan their journey”. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank customers for their patience and understanding while the work takes place”. Chris Nutton, Major Projects Director for TransPennine Express said: “As major upgrade work takes place for Morley station, there will some service alterations for TransPennine Express services. Customers are advised to allow for additional time to travel and to check carefully for the latest service alterations before they travel on our website (www.tpexpress.co.uk/travel-updates/changes-to-train-times). “Updates will also be available on our social media channels. In addition, extra support will be available for customers from Customer Delivery Managers who will be on hand to assist customers with their journeys.” The Transpennine Route Upgrade is set to revolutionise rail across the north of England by delivering a fully electrified railway between Manchester and York, improving stations along the route and upgrading a number of bridges and level crossings.
Signify, the world leader in lighting, has equipped Dublin Port Tunnel in Ireland, an iconic infrastructure spanning 9km, with energy-efficient LED lighting for all its 1800 light points in the tunnel. The upgraded lighting has achieved up to 60% reduction in electricity use (based on 2022 rates), or the equivalent of the electricity consumed by up to 300 Irish households1.The upgrade hasenabled the tunnel to operate with reduced costs, lower emissions, and a reduced impact on grid congestion. The project is expected to save upwards of €4 million (£3.3 million) in electricity costs including VAT over the coming five years. The installation includes reusing the existing fittings for all light points. So, the project contributes to a more circular economy, saving an estimated €3 million (£2.6 million) as opposed to opting for a new LED infrastructural installation. Since the end of 2006, Dublin Port Tunnel has provided a link to the wider motorway network between Dublin Port and the M50, routing heavy goods transport quickly, quietly, and safely away from city and residential areas. Tunnel maintenance operator ERTO was instructed by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) to find a solution that would reduce energy costs and improve the quality of light in the tunnel. Signify’s LED retrofit solution was selected for its ease of replacement and impressive cost savings, which are especially significant in the context of the current energy crisis. Also, given that the tunnel is a dedicated route for Heavy Goods Vehicles between the Port, located in the heart of the city and the greater road network via the Coolock Lane Interchange (M50), the LED lighting project also aims to improve visibility in the tunnel. The project is part of the Irish government’s energy efficiency plans and was partially funded through the European Green Deal. Replacing the existing over 17 year installed Philips WRTL SON-T lighting with LED lights from Signify dramatically reduces the energy needed to keep the lights on, as well as providing a clear, high-quality light source that offers drivers and CCTV operators excellent visibility of road conditions. Installers made use of the existing high-quality housings, which were all retested, and CE marked to current standards and fitted with Philips METIS 2816 LED insert trays. By reusing the existing fittings, the project was achieved with minimal material waste, contributing to a more circular economy. As the new lights were made to perfectly fit the existing fittings, installation could be completed with minimal disruption to road users. Installers worked during late night and early morning hours over five weeks, with each lantern taking just five minutes to strip out and replace. Reusing materials also kept the project’s capital expense to a minimum, saving an estimated €3 million (£2.6 million) compared to a new installation. Patrick O’Hanlon, Senior Engineer at TII, said “We are delighted to have worked with Signify on this project. The replacement of the original SON lamps with LED inserts is a huge step towards reducing the carbon emissions, energy consumption and future maintenance of the Dublin Port Tunnel, while also improving overall lighting and power quality.” Sean Campbell, Key Account Manager – Road Lighting, Signify Ireland, “Dublin Port Tunnel is unique in Ireland and high traffic flows from the port of Dublin. Working with the customer and assessing the balance of maintenance costing along with energy prices on the rise, our R&D team successfully developed and tested a product that was cost effective and energy efficient. Collaborating with the customer who trusts Signify to deliver on a circular economy project that reduces energy consumption while increasing the power factor has been a real pleasure.’’ Dermot Deely, Managing Director, Signify Ireland, said “With public lighting accounting for 24% of Dublin Council’s energy expenditure, energy efficiency projects like this one can make an enormous positive impact. Through a relatively simple upgrade, we’ve been able to improve light quality, cost, maintenance, and sustainability for Dublin Port Tunnel. We are particularly proud to have supported these environmental goals while giving a second life to many of the materials that were already in place.”Learn more about the impact of switching to LED on Signify’s website. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
7 June 2023 announced as date for first passenger service between Picardy Place and Newhaven as Pilrig Wheels installed. Passenger services on the new tram route to Newhaven are scheduled start at 12pm on 7 June 2023, it was announced today (Thursday, 25 May). The route, which has been under construction since November 2019, has been delivered within the £207.3m budget meeting the scheduled completion date of spring 2023. Council Leader Cammy Day welcomed the news from Iona Street, where two historic cable wheels dating back to Victorian Edinburgh’s original tram system were lowered into place on Thursday. The wheels, which are 2.6m in diameter, were rediscovered at the Pilrig Street junction with Leith Walk in August 2021 during Trams to Newhaven excavations and will now be put on permanent display as part of public realm improvements to Iona Street. Over recent months rigorous testing to ensure the newly constructed line, software and signals work effectively and safely has included running trams at half and full speed and eventually to timetable, work to integrate signalling and interface with Edinburgh Trams’ control centre and driver familiarisation. Standard timetable testing will continue on the route in the run-up to the launch of services on 7 June 2023. Council Leader Cammy Day said: “As we welcome back a piece of tram history to Leith Walk, it’s fitting that we’re also able to look forward to the future of Edinburgh’s tram network, and the start of passenger services on the brand-new line to Newhaven. “While this is a moment for celebration, it’s also a chance to reflect on the last few years, and I’d like to take the opportunity to thank residents and businesses for their patience during this major, complex project. “The completion of this line, delivering high capacity, clean transport to the densely populated north of the Capital, signifies our aspirations to become a sustainable, net zero city. And by improving connectivity to the waterfront, it won’t only promote further economic development in Leith, but will bring jobs and more affordable housing too. “We’re now counting down the days to passenger services, and I’m pleased to say this project will be delivered within budget and on time. This is thanks to lessons learned from the previous project along with a great deal of hard work and dedication from the project team and contractors involved in the construction process.” Lea Harrison, Managing Director of Edinburgh Trams, said: “The setting of a launch date for the new line is fantastic news for city residents and visitors, but particularly communities between the city centre and Newhaven. “In recent years, thanks to the efforts of the entire Edinburgh Trams team, our multi award-winning tramway has become one of the most popular transport systems of its type thanks to a single-minded commitment to service excellence that will continue into an exciting new era. “As we approach this major milestone in the history of Edinburgh Trams and the city, we can’t wait to welcome even more customers on board as we introduce swift and reliable services to the vibrant communities along the route, helping to unlock their full potential and providing a real boost for local businesses.” Maria Ortega, Project Director on SFN JV, said: “This is a proud day for the Sacyr Farrans Neopul (SFN) JV team as we celebrate the new line coming into operation. We started work on Edinburgh Trams York Place to Newhaven four years ago, tasked with the delivery of one of the most important and complex light rail projects in the UK. Today we can say that we have achieved that vision successfully. “I would like to thank the relentless efforts of our team throughout unprecedented times and recognise the power of the ongoing collaboration we have had with our client, our partners and our supply chain. “It has been a privilege to operate within the communities of Leith and Newhaven and we extend our thanks to the local community. “We hope that the City of Edinburgh will now begin to benefit from the wide-ranging social and economic benefits that a project of this significance will bring.” UK Managing Director of Infrastructure at Turner & Townsend, James Corrigan said: “Following our long-standing relationship with City of Edinburgh Council and successfully supporting the original project post mediation which led to the work for the project between York Place and Newhaven, we are delighted to see the new, improved line approach it’s final stages of construction and ready for full service. “The project is an example of how significant investment in infrastructure can not only improve connectivity across a popular city centre but also contribute to the city’s green agenda. Collaboration with the full supply chain and client is something we pride ourselves on and this has certainly been key to driving performance during the construction of this major project. Working closely with all partners has helped to mitigate the challenges of supply chain issues and general volatility in the market post COVID-19, and enabled the project to remain on time and on budget. As local authorities look to provide more sustainable and efficient transport and meet their net-zero aspirations, tram networks are becoming increasingly popular in the UK. Edinburgh has led the way in this revolution and is a superb exemplar for others to follow.” While the project will open for revenue services on 7 June 2023, outstanding public realm works will continue in some sections. Find out more about Trams to Newhaven.
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has appointed leading rolling stock engineering consultancy DB ESG to deliver its tram safety improvement programme. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) recommended that light rail networks deliver programmes to prevent the risk of serious accidents from tram over-speeding or driver inattention following the tragic event at Sandilands in Croydon where a tram overturned. Metrolink trams are already fitted with a device that applies the emergency brake in the event of a driver becoming incapacitated and the signalling system has several built-in protections. DB ESG working in partnership with Sella Controls, will design, install, test and commission the Driver Vigilance Devices (DVD) and Tram Overspeed Protection Systems (TOPS) to the Metrolink fleet of trams. To prevent over-speeding, Metrolink’s fleet of 147 trams will be equipped with the new systems that will use GPS and other information to determine the location and speed of the tram. The system utilises Sella Controls UK Rail approved Tracklink® III and EKE Electronics TRAINNET® technologies to provide the TOPS and DVD System. In the event of over-speeding, the driver will be alerted, and if there is no response the brakes will be applied automatically. The protection system will operate independently of other tram monitoring systems. To ensure drivers remain alert, an upgrade will be applied to the traction brake system and if no movement is detected input will be requested from the driver. Since the Croydon accident, TfGM and the Metrolink Operator – KeolisAmey Metrolink (KAM) – worked to progress the recommendations and introduced enhancements such as lower speed limits in key areas, additional hazard signage, an improved driver simulator used for training, enhanced medical standards and proactive speed monitoring. As the largest light rail network in the country, with more than 100km of track and 147 vehicles – which equates to just under half (46%) of the entire tram fleet in the UK – significant work has been done to explore new technology that will help to deliver the more complicated RAIB recommendations. This included use of the Metrolink network to trial solutions on behalf of the newly founded Light Rail Safety and Standards Board. This meticulous research was used to develop the specifications for the systems that DB ESG will now deliver. TfGM’s Head of Metrolink, Danny Vaughan, said: “The safety of our customers and staff is paramount, which is why we have robust safety and assurance practices built into the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the network. “Metrolink has an exemplary safety record, but following the tragedy in Croydon – and through the subsequent RAIB recommendations – we have taken steps to enhance this even further and have played an industry-leading role by participating in trials of innovative technology to monitor driver attention and vehicle over-speeding. “Metrolink is the largest and most complex light rail system in the country, and we’ve worked very closely with leading industry experts to ensure we get the right solution, and we look forward to working with DB ESG to deliver them.” Nick Goodhand, Managing Director at DB ESG, said: “We are pleased to be working with TfGM to deliver their critical Tram Safety Improvement Programme to implement the RAIB recommendations. The Tram Overspeed Protection System introduces an additional level of safety without impact to the normal service delivery or performance of the tram network.” Rob Nield, Business Development Manager at Sella Controls, said: “Following the successful delivery of the UK’s first SIL2 Light Rail Overspeed Prevention System, we are pleased to once again work closely with DB ESG, and newly TfGM, to deliver a solution which further bolsters the already outstanding Metrolink safety record.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Aggregate Industries has secured a place as one of the contractors to provide surfacing works on highways across Blackburn and Darwen. The leading construction materials supplier, which has its regional Northern Office at Hindley, Wigan, was successful in securing a place on Lot 1 Surfacing and Civils Works Framework for Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council. The contract is for an initial period covering April 2023 to April 2025 with an option for two further 12 month extensions. The framework is for the delivery of surfacing schemes valued up to £1m per annum and is to provide footway and carriageway improvements and resurfacing. A key part of the framework was sustainability, which included supporting the council’s goal to be carbon neutral by 2030. This allowed Aggregate Industries, when formulating the bid, to put forward the choice of key innovative low carbon surfacing solutions that are fundamental in assisting local authorities in meeting their future CO2 targets. Victoria Smith, Regional Director for the North and Midlands in the Surfacing Solutions division, said: “It’s great news to have been appointed to the surfacing contract for Blackburn with Darwen and have the opportunity to deliver some real value to the framework utilising the latest in low carbon solutions. “We have a strong track record in the region with local authorities and on major infrastructure projects and will be supporting our contracts from our asphalt and recycling facilities in Lancashire and North Manchester.” Aggregate Industries will also support the council on wider social value aspects including providing volunteering support for local projects and working with the local supply chain where appropriate. Carmel Foster-Devine, Head of Highways at Blackburn with Darwen Council, added: “We are looking forward to working in partnership with Aggregate Industries to improve the road network across Blackburn with Darwen. Our local communities will also benefit from the social action and volunteering support the company invests in neighbourhoods in which it works. “In addition, working with contractors who align with the objectives we’ve set ourselves within our Climate Change Action Plan is paramount and Aggregate Industries have shown that they can support us in addressing sustainability and resource efficiency in their project delivery.” For more information about our Surfacing Solutions compatibility visit https://www.aggregate.com/products-and-services/contracting-services Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Work to renovate the Beverley Station 130-year-old footbridge which closed due to its rotting wooden canopy has begun ahead of its reopening later this year. Engineers began work to strengthen the cast iron structure of the footbridge at Beverley Station, following its closure in September. Network Rail’s North and East Route Director Matt Rice said the works were vital to refurbish the footbridge which dates from the 1880s while keeping passengers safe. A Network Rail spokesperson told LDRS the newly restored footbridge is set to open in November once the works are finished. It comes after East Riding Council’s Planning Committee first approved plans to remove the footbridge’s wooden canopy last July. Councillors heard the Grade II-listed structure could no longer withstand the effects of wind and the weight of passengers, with no viable options to preserve it. There were concerns that parts of the weakened canopy could start falling onto the tracks below. But objectors at the time claimed it had become run down because of a lack of maintenance after standing for 130 years without issue. The cast iron part of the footbridge was among a series of ‘Type Ones’ installed on North Eastern Railway (NER) lines in the late 19th Century. It is one of the few surviving footbridges of its kind left on the Hull to Scarborough railway line. The wooden canopy is thought to be a later addition after the bridge was first installed in 1889. Network Rail works are set to see the cast iron base of the bridge cleaned, repaired and repainted and its flooring strengthened so it can remain. The iron bridge parapets are set to be replaced with steel replicas, infilled with mesh panels. Passengers will continue to be diverted along Armstrong Way while the works take place. Mr Rice said he was pleased the works were now getting underway. Matt Rice, North and East Route Director for Network Rail, said: “I’m pleased that work is getting underway to fully restore this historic footbridge at Beverley station. It is an important piece of history that dates back to the 1880s, so it’s vital that we refurbish it sympathetically whilst ensuring it remains safe for passengers. “I’d like to thank passengers for their patience whilst we push ahead with this project, and I look forward to the bridge opening later in the year.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
During the second week of May, Railtex, the International Exhibition of Railway Equipment, Systems and Services, ended after three days of flourishing business. From 9 – 11 May 2023, over 2,600 trade visitors came to Birmingham to discover the latest innovations, products, and services from all areas of railway technology. This is a 17 % increase in visitor numbers compared to the previous event in 2022. As the showcase event for the rail industry, Railtex 2023 welcomed 160 exhibitors from 19 countries representing the complete spectrum of the railway industry, from railway civil engineering to rolling stock manufacturing, plant machinery, monitoring and testing systems, safety, and security systems, signalling and communications, track and infrastructure, passenger technology and many other products and services. “It was a very good and valuable three-day event filled with innovative product showcases, learning opportunities and plenty of business conversations. We would like to thank all our partners, exhibitors and visitors who helped make this show possible,” stated Nicola Hamann, the Managing Director, on behalf of RX. “We are delighted to see such a positive turnout of the show! Both exhibitors and visitors were highly satisfied, as they either reconnected with existing contacts or established new business relations.” Key topics of the rail industry explored in supporting programme Key topics included decarbonisation to international growth, innovation, and sustainability, which currently move and influence the industry. These topics were covered via the exhibitors’ products and services and the show elements, such as panel discussions, presentations, and Innovation Village at Railtex 2023. “Another rich supporting programme, organised by our main show partner, the Railway Industry Association (RIA), reflected the key challenges and opportunities that the UK rail industry will face in the years to come. In addition to the great speaker line-up, it was also such a pleasure to welcome Dame Nia Griffith, the Shadow Minister for Exports, and Iain Stewart, Chair of the Transport Select Committee at Railtex,” mentioned Nicola Hamann, on behalf of RX. A detailed overview on the full programme and keynote speakers is available on the show’s Conferences page. Innovation in the spotlight at Railtex RIA’s Innovation Village welcomed a different railway client each day, who showcased their innovative solutions, and Innovation Village’s mayors included High-Speed Two (HS2), Transport for Wales and Train Operating Companies (TOC) Innovation Community. Dates of the next show Existing and new exhibitors have already expressed their interest in participating in the upcoming show edition in 2025. Railtex 2025 will take place from 13 – 15 May 2025 at the NEC, Birmingham. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Rail infrastructure specialist Spencer Group is making significant progress on the construction of a £26.5 million station in South Leeds. Situated between Morley and Cottingley, the White Rose Rail Station will be located on the main trans-Pennine route to Manchester via Huddersfield. It will be a two-platform station providing improved access to the adjacent White Rose office park, shopping centre and bus interchange. The fully accessible station will include cycle storage next to the White Rose Park, along with improved walking and cycling routes between Cottingley, Churwell and Millshaw, and the White Rose Shopping Centre and bus interchange. Hull-based Spencer Group is delivering the project for White Rose owner Munroe K in conjunction with Network Rail, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Leeds City Council and the Department for Transport. Construction of the new station, which will replace Cottingley Rail Station, is scheduled to be completed later this year and is expected to open in early 2024. Joe Bennett, Operations Director at Spencer Group, said: “We’ve been working closely with key stakeholders to bring the White Rose Rail Station to fruition and, as a local contractor, are pleased to play our part in helping our infrastructure in the North. “Over the coming months, the commitment and hard work the partnership and key stakeholders have demonstrated in getting the scheme to this point will be rewarded with significant physical progress on the site. “The erection of the lift cores and link bridge walkways, connecting the platform works already undertaken, will transform the look of the project and enable people to see the facility for the first time. It’s an exciting time for all involved.” Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, visited the site to see the progress being made on the project. The visit included a first look at the steel frames for the new station buildings, which will house two lifts and the stairs to the station platforms. This work follows the installation of the station platforms on the railway line embankment. Ms Brabin said: “We’re determined to create a stronger, fairer and better-connected region so that everybody has the same opportunity to get on in life. Investing in transport that supports economic growth is absolutely vital. “I’m proud that together we’re investing £26.5 million in a new White Rose Rail Station. “This investment will bring new opportunities for people in Cottingley, Churwell, Millshaw, Morley and beyond by boosting transport links and local regeneration, including housing and job growth.” The scheme has received funding from the Leeds City Region Transforming Cities Fund, the Leeds Public Transport Investment Programme and £5 million from the Department for Transport’s New Stations Fund, alongside contributions from Munroe K. David Aspin, CEO of Munroe K, said: “For a long time now I’ve had the ambition to bring a fully accessible new station to White Rose Park and to see it nearing completion is immensely rewarding. “Delivering the UK’s very first railway station through public and private sector partnership has been a real testament to everyone involved. “The new station can be the catalyst to unlock real economic development in this area of south Leeds, providing our local communities with better links to education and employment opportunities. Its location at the White Rose Park makes it accessible to many more people living in the area and beyond.” Students from nearby Elliot Hudson College have taken part in work experience with Spencer Group at the site to learn more about the project and careers in the industry. Rosie Quashie, Vice Principal at the college, said: “Work experience placements such as those our students have been able to access at the White Rose Rail Station construction site are so important. “Working with the staff at Spencer Group has provided our students with a wide range of transferable employability skills and enabled them to gain invaluable experience of the scheme and the different career opportunities in engineering and construction, and this has really supported them in deciding their career destinations after leaving Elliot Hudson College. “Many of our students rely on public transport and will benefit from the new station when it opens next year.” To find out more about Spencer Group’s rail infrastructure expertise, visit www.thespencergroup.co.uk/our-work/rail/
