The main beneficiary of the new vehicles is Network Rail’s East Coast Main Line Power Supply Upgrade Project and its delivery agent, the Rail Electrification Alliance (REAL), of which VolkerRail is a member.

The alliance is tasked with upgrading the power supply and associated equipment on the route between London and Doncaster. This will decrease the amount of maintenance required and prepare the line for the new trains, in support of Thameslink and the Government’s Intercity Express Programme (IEP).

The new road/rail units, RR14 EVO mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs), are state-of-the-art vehicles with advanced specification. Each unit comprises an articulating telescopic boom, with excellent side reach and a lifting capacity of up to 400kgs (three persons). This allows for easy manoeuvrability of the basket up and around overhead wires and structures, whilst undertaking installation of overhead line electrification equipment.

Welcoming the new fleet, REAL alliance director Rod Moorcroft said: “The vehicles are already making a significant impact on the project. Our respective teams appreciate the additional functionality that they bring and our technical staff is very impressed by the enhanced safety systems.”

Mark Jackson, VolkerRail general manager, said: “VolkerRail continues to invest and strengthen its plant division as demand grows and we welcome the new MEWPs, which are already working on site; helping in the completion of overhead line works at Hitchin.”

VolkerRail’s road rail vehicles are supported by the company’s in-house maintainers, who have undergone extensive training and are considered some of the best in the country; regularly receiving commendations for their safe, flexible and professional approach.