The Project
Bath Spa Station is one of the most strategically important stations on the great Western mainline route between Bristol and London, Paddington. The station service over 3 million passengers annually. The station requires significant modernisation to accommodate the new InterCity Express Programme trains, and associated electrification. The project involves various stakeholders, including network rail. Great Western railways, the Department for Transport and Bath and Somerset East Council. The complexity of the works was further heightened by the structure being grade 2 listed status, requiring all works to be sympathetic to the respected building listing.
The Solution
ei worked as a lead engineer with Network Rail and other stakeholders to develop a detailed scope and requirements that met the needs of all parties involved. This involves reviewing existing station infrastructure, the requirements of the new IEP trains, and ensuring the project met, the latest safety and accessibility standards. To mitigate the impact on the grade 2 listed structure, it was concluded that the utilisation of the wide way between the existing tracks would be the most sympathetic and efficient solution. The platforms required realigning to accommodate the electrification clearances to the overhead line system; therefore, the leading edge of the existing platform was brought forward from beneath the existing canopy, therefore removing the requirement for the existing canopy to be cut back or adapted. The works were undertaken within a 16-day blockade with a single line operation on the adjacent line, allowing the intercity services between Bristol and London Paddington to be maintained, during the week, with only total possession of the station and railway being taken at weekends.
To mitigate the impact of the works and maximise the utilisation of the disruptive possessions of the track maintenance and drainage works were undertaken throughout the area. During the 16-day blockade in excess of 150, worksites were established and maintenance works undertaken successfully.
The Results
All works were completed at all of the work sites within the prescribed construction programme. The station was reopened to normal services at the end of the blockade, within enhanced passenger and train length platform capacity.
"The project demonstrated how through integrated planning and co-ordination between all design, construction and maintenance organisations and Stakeholders works deliver can be maximised, with minimum disruption to the operation railway. The project delivery was a tribute to all parties involved."
- Julian Mason EI Director