Rail Tech Group successfully complete S&T works at Billinghurst Station

Network Rail’s strategic business plan is to increase passenger capacity by 12% over the UK network within the next 4 years. As part of this target, Billingshurst Station was one of the first stations selected for significant platform extension works required to accommodate 8 car trains and the use of class 377 EMU rolling stock.

Rail Tech Group’s involvement with the project was to manage and deliver all of the signalling installation and test & commissioning works on behalf of main contractor Barhale Rail. This included the provision of a CRE, the production of Work Package Plans, Task Briefing sheets, Safe Systems of Work and Test Plans.

During the works it was imperative that the physical trackside works did not interfere with signaller’s duties at Billingshurst Signal Box and additional care was required when undertaking, working and inspecting the mechanical locking frame that dated back to 1874.

All the implemented changes were tested and checked over a 2 stage commissioning. Signalling works involved with the project included the following deliverables:

• Extension and shortening of track circuits.
• Recovery of existing fibre optic banner repeater signal and structure. The provision of new LED banner repeater signal (State 2 type) and structure.
• Recovery and renewal of existing location case.
• Installation of new stop boards & speed board signage
• Assisting with alterations to mechanical locking.
• Recovery of signal BT12.
• Extension to existing trough route
• Re-positioning and installation of SDO

The Rail Tech Group was highly commended by both Barhale Rail and Network Rail on their professional and flexible approach to the works. All works were commissioned on time and to budget.