SYSTRA has been appointed as design partner with contractor AmcoGiffen to deliver a seven-mile loop reinstating the old twin-track Welsh Ebbw Vale line from Crosskeys in the south to Llanhilleth in the north.
The overall construction cost will be more than £20m with the 12-month design contract worth £2m for SYSTRA, led by its Senior PM David Camacho. SYSTRA ’s scope is multi-disciplinary incorporating civil and structural engineering, geotechnical, environmental and architectural interventions.
The rail improvements are part of a £70m investment, funded by Blaenau Gwent Council, and supported by the Welsh Government. The project will deliver new track enabling an hourly service between Ebbw Vale Town and Newport. New platforms that will be installed at Llanhilleth and Newbridge making the stations fully accessible for the first time.
The Ebbw Vale improvements also include an underbridge replacement, creation of new bridge walkways to five separate structures as well as enhancing multiple embankments, cuttings and retaining structures along the route.
Martyn Ayres, SYSTRA’s Head of Business Development – South said: “The project underpins SYSTRA’s strategy to grow its portfolio in the conventional rail market, and further build its successful collaboration with major contractors AmcoGiffen and project sponsor Network Rail. This exciting project will deliver great outcomes for the local communities in South Wales who will directly benefit from increased rail services and much improved station facilities.”
James Price, Transport for Wales Chief Executive, said: “This substantial investment from the Welsh Government will bring significant benefits for people living in Ebbw Vale and the surrounding communities.”
Photo credit: SYSTRA
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