Background

The Government-sponsored Thameslink Programme is transforming north-south rail travel through London. Improved connections provide travellers with better travel options to more destinations, while new track and modern trains make journeys more reliable.

Scope

We have completed the following work packages for Network Rail as part of the Thameslink Programme:

• Cable diversions at Blackfriars/Ludgate Cellars substation
• Upgrading of Cannon Street, Farringdon and Southwark substations
• Gatwick substation upgrade and relocation
• Outline design of Gatwick substation
• Feeder diversion at Ferme Park
• TLP KO2 GRIP 3 and 4 design
• HV DC traction upgrade works at a number of sites
• HV cable diversions at Three Bridges
• Williams Way substation GRIP 4 works and GRIP 5 – 8 works

Challenges

Working to very tight deadlines, the varied works provided a wide range of general and specific challenges to successfully overcome.

We organised outages, alternate feeding (using the CT149 process) and the complex interfaces with DC isolations and DC CB rack-outs (using the B2 process) delivering each stage without issues.

Working in conjunction with a civil subcontractor, we extended the mezzanine at Southwark to facilitate installation of the new DC cable routes. Outside the building a large cable gantry was also proposed and built to complete the DC and HV cable installation to avoid damage to an existing viaduct wall.

We undertook Thameslink Programme works using in-house critical resources including Level A, B and D operatives, as well as commissioning engineers. This enabled the most efficient delivery of the works and, more importantly, a team respected by all when managing the interfaces with the Electrical Control Room Operator (ECRO), possession planners and Network Rail delivery teams.

The Ludgate Cellars project, a significant cornerstone in the Thameslink Programme delivery, was planned and installed in a ground-breaking nine months. We overcame ground condition issues that required significant design amendments, presenting a 12 week challenge to the critical milestone.

Achievements

The most significant lesson learned throughout this demanding project was the importance of collaborative working with Network Rail and all stakeholders. UK Power Networks Services continues to support this ethos and operate in this way.

Based on this method of operating, UK Power Networks Services has been recognised as a company that consistently delivers excellent service on projects with tight programmes.

• £78 million project
• 7 year duration
• Collaborative working with Network Rail and all stakeholders