Atkinsrealis joins alliance on U.K. Midlands Rail Hub

Executive Summary

• Atkinsrealis Group Inc. has been appointed by Network Rail to design and develop the Midlands Rail Hub program, a major infrastructure project aimed at transforming rail connectivity in Birmingham and the West Midlands.
• Atkinsrealis will participate in an alliance with VolkerRail, Laing O'Rourke, Siemens Mobility, and Network Rail to execute the eight-year program, which has secured £123 million in government funding for design and development.
• The full program is estimated to cost £1.75 billion, with early passenger benefits expected in the early 2030s, including up to 300 extra trains per day and improved services across the Midlands and Wales.

Key Details

• Contract Scope: Atkinsrealis will provide multidisciplinary design, engineering leadership, project management and controls, commercial and risk management, and environment and consenting services.
• Alliance Partners: VolkerRail, Laing O'Rourke, Siemens Mobility, and Network Rail.
• Funding: £123 million sterling in government funding allocated for design and development work.
• Total Project Cost: Approximately £1.75 billion sterling if delivered in full.
• Timeline: The program spans eight years; early passenger benefits are expected by the early 2030s.
• Operational Impact:
  • Reconfiguration of rail services across Birmingham and the wider region.
  • Addition of up to 300 extra trains per day to the West Midlands rail network.
  • Improved services between Birmingham and more than 50 locations across the Midlands and Wales.
  • Reconfiguration of Birmingham’s three main stations (New Street, Moor Street, and Snow Hill) and establishment of new connections between main lines.
• Strategic Context: The appointment builds on Atkinsrealis's existing UK portfolio, including the £4 billion Train Control Systems Framework, the East West Rail program, and the East Coast digital program.

Notable Quotes

• "Government investment in rail infrastructure is essential to improving connectivity and supporting economic growth," said Ian L. Edwards, president and chief executive officer, Atkinsrealis.
• "Atkinsrealis brings proven credentials to the Midlands Rail Hub, from major station redesigns including Birmingham New Street to large-scale alliance programs such as East West Rail," said Chris Ball, president, United Kingdom and Ireland, Atkinsrealis.