This signalling power distribution and renewals project will see VolkerRail renew over 50 miles of life expired 650V distribution cables and associated equipment, which is approximately 40 years old, along the WCML; from Oxenholme to Gretna Green.

Due to restricted possession times the team will only have one night per week to complete the survey works required along the 88 mile stretch of track. The training day was designed to allow AECOM to demonstrate its survey requirements and for all parties to agree on a uniformed approach prior to the works.

James Mackintosh, AECOM’s design manager said: “This was the first time we have been invited to a controlled area with the whole project team. The opportunity allowed us to demonstrate our requirements in detail and spend time gathering feedback to refine our approach and gain the most from the survey works; avoiding any reworks.”

VolkerRail will undertake the multi-disciplinary surveys along the network, with up to 15 surveys undertaken per shift. This consistent approach will also facilitate paralleled working and help AECOM design a constructible solution to the project that incorporates ‘safe by design’ methodology.

As part of the project, AECOM is also looking at utilising new Functional Supply Point (FSP) technology to help reduce civil works on site and the risk of possession overrun, as well as long-term maintenance requirements. Although AECOM has already proposed this approach on a separate project in conjunction with Network Rail, this will be the first time FSP’s are introduced to this network.

David Brocket, VolkerRail project engineer said: “To collaborate with both Network Rail and AECOM is a great start for this project. AECOM’s visit allowed all staff to understand the requirements behind the survey works and brought both teams together to create a strong relationship.”