The Intercity Express Programme (IEP) required the upgrade of depots across the UK in order to maintain the Hitachi Trains next generation fleet of Class 800 and 801 Super Express Trains. These run at speeds of up to 125mph using a combination of electric and diesel power, and required new specialist fuelling, wash and maintenance facilities.
Client | Network Rail |
Duration | 41 months |
Location | Depots along the East Coast Main Line |
Contract Form | NR9 |
The purpose of this project was to conduct design work for eight facilities and to deliver modifications to five existing depot facilities and one new facility. The works undertaken varied at each depot but generally included: Surveys and design works, new fuel dispensing facilities and aprons, provision of facilities for storage and dispensing of Adblue® (fuel additive), provision of sanding facilities, provision of access for removal/replacement of roof-top air-conditioning units and pantographs, upgrading/renewal of carriage wash plant facilities, upgrading of CET evacuation facilities, remodelling of depot layout, associated S&T works, E&P works and lighting provision, and amended authorised access walkways.
The project required close liaison with multiple Depot Facility Owners, each with their own operating procedures, to ensure a successful delivery across the sites. Only one depot on the East Coast Main Line could be disrupted at any one time, meaning completion dates were central to the success of the project. Any overrun would have affected the next depot works and had a major delay impact on the entire programme. Spencer Group carefully managed this time critical interface to ensure delivery of each depot successfully, safely and on time. The IEP depots programme is an excellent example of Spencer Group’s ability to design and deliver multi-site, programme critical projects successfully and safely.