Network Rail agrees multi-billion pound contract for Crossrail's Surface Works
By Network Rail
Network Rail has agreed an anticipated final cost with Crossrail Limited to deliver significant infrastructure enhancements on the rail network to enable Crossrail services to operate to Maidenhead, Heathrow, Abbey Wood and Shenfield.
The work to be undertaken by Network Rail for Crossrail represents one of the largest commecrial contracts in Network Rail's ten-year history, and marks a further significant milestone in the delivery of the Crossrail project. Network Rail will deliver the works within the £2.3bn funding available.
Network Rail is responsible for the elements of the Crossrail project which are above ground and contained within the existing network. This includes modifications at 28 surface stations, provision of power for the new rolling stock including overhead lines, and the building of a new, larger flyover at Stockley in Hillingdon to enable Crossrail services to operate to Heathrow.
Simon Kirby, managing director, Network Rail Infrastructure Projects, said: "Network Rail's combined roles of operating and upgrading the existing railway mean that we are uniquely placed to deliver the above ground elements of this world-class project. We've spent two years working with our customer, Crossrail Limited, to develop the exact scope of the work and are confident that we have the right plan, expertise and resources. We and our supply partners are now completely focused on efficient delivery for passengers and delighting our customer."
Matthew White, Crossrail's surface director, said: "To enable Crossrail services to operate, Network Rail will be undertaking a multi-billion upgrade of the rail network with major improvements planned for the Great Eastern and Great Western main lines including better stations, electrification, new and improved signalling and the integration of the new Crossrail tunnels with the existing railway."
Crossrail trains will travel from Maidenhead and Heathrow, through new rail tunnels below central London, to Shenfield and Abbey Wood. The service will offer the ability to travel directly to the West End, the City and Canary Wharf without changing, reducing journey times and inconvenience.
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Network Rail delivering Crossrail
Network Rail is a key partner in Crossrail and is making significant investment in upgrading the network around the capital to deliver it. This complements Network Rail's other work to increase capacity and improve performance across Britain’s railway.
Network Rail is responsible for the design, development and delivery of the parts of Crossrail that are on the existing network. Its work will integrate Crossrail with the national rail network, delivering faster, more frequent trains into central London from the east and west. The work includes upgrading 42 miles of track, redeveloping 28 stations, and renewing 15 bridges.
About Crossrail
The total funding envelope available to deliver Crossrail is £14.8bn.
The Crossrail route will pass through 37 stations and run 118 km (73 miles) from Maidenhead and Heathrow in the west, through new twin-bore 21 km (13 miles) tunnels below central London to Shenfield and Abbey Wood in the east.
When Crossrail opens it will increase London's rail-based transport network capacity by 10%, supporting regeneration and cutting journey times across the city. Crossrail services are due to commence through central London in 2018.
Crossrail is being delivered by Crossrail Limited (CRL). CRL is a wholly owned subsidiary of Transport for London. Crossrail is jointly sponsored by the Department for Transport and Transport for London.