Network Rail has appointed AtkinsRéalis to renew and upgrade the signalling and telecommunications infrastructure across the Eastern region of England.
AtkinsRéalis is one of two suppliers selected for Lot 2A under the Eastern Routes Partnership Framework. The Lot 2A contract is valued at up to 150 million GBP over five years, but also has an option to extend to 300 million GBP over an additional five years.
Its scope involves renewing and enhancing interlockings, level crossings, networks, trackside equipment, and telecommunications systems.
Sheffield station
© Network Rail
“Rail networks are facing new and increasing demands from passengers and businesses, meaning modern signalling and communication are essential to the provision of sustainable, reliable transportation. Rail is one of our core sectors and this appointment reinforces our position as a market leader delivering high-quality infrastructure and digital technology which meets the evolving needs of the industry.”
The Eastern region covers over 6,000 miles of track and plays a crucial role in the UK’s passenger and freight rail network through major cities such as Newcastle, Leeds, Sheffield, Derby, Norwich, and Cambridge.
Much of the infrastructure in the region is over 40 years old, prompting Network Rail’s investment in this renewal project.
“The ERP framework is key to effectively maintaining our infrastructure to deliver a sustained improvement in train performance over the next five years. It’s designed to strengthen our relationships with our supply chain partners, letting us utilise their skills and experience. ERP also lets us take a more collaborative approach by bringing our engineers, delivery teams and the suppliers together, earlier, to identify the minimum viable product.”