Rolling stock maintenance specialist Loram UK has announced it has entered into a “multi-million-pound” deal with Network Rail to repurpose at least 250 side tipper ballast wagons.
Loram UK will remove the tipper element of the wagons to create reusable and more versatile non-tipping static containers.
Loram UK and Network Rail have collaborated on maintenance and infrastructure programmes before. Andrew Watson, Loram UK’s international business development director, said the programme would further strengthen that relationship.
He said: “The availability of wagons generally is an issue so to be able to repurpose 250 provides much greater flexibility for Network Rail. It’s a project we’re very excited to be involved in and allows us to expand our horizons.
“We are always looking at diversifying and this allows us to not only carry out the work, but manage the logistics regards collecting the wagons, the processes around the repurposing and sending them back to Network Rail.”
The repurposing programme will be carried out at Loram’s base in Derby, and will last two years. The contract, for an undisclosed sum, will help secure around 35 jobs for the duration, along with 20 others across the supply chain.
The design of the new ballast boxes, integration and modifications are being carried out by global testing and certification company TUV Rheinland Risktec Solutions, which has a UK base on Pride Park in Derby.
Laura May, business development manager, said: “We are especially excited about this project because of the local, collaborative opportunity it presents working with Loram, who are a stone’s throw away from our offices in Derby.
“We support the mission behind the project of repurposing the wagons and improving the renewal of the infrastructure of our railway. People of all levels of skillset will be utilised in supporting this project from our Apprentice to our Principle Consultant, so there is great opportunity across the board.”
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