Atkins provides detailed study for Danish rail upgrade

Atkins has been appointed by Rail Net Denmark to prepare the preliminary concept report for an upgrade of the major rail line between Aarhus and Hobro in Denmark.

The project, “Speed Upgrade Aarhus – Hobro”, aims to improve the service of the existing rail line and avoid the need for an additional high speed link. It will form part of the implementation of Rail Net Denmark’s ‘one hour plan’, which is based on the principle that passengers should have no more than one hour’s travel time between Aarhus and Aalborg. The current travel time by fast train is one hour and 21 minutes, including stops in Randers and Hobro.

Atkins will perform the preliminary studies of how travel time between the two cities can be effectively minimised. Potential solutions may involve closing of crossings, straightening of track curves or shortening the length of track. Another major element of the study will involve detailed assessment of the traffic and environmental impacts of the proposed improvements.

Atkins’ project manager Hanne Funch said: “This is the first multidisciplinary project on Danish ground with Atkins as the sole consultant. It is strong testament to our proven skills and expertise in the rail sector and in transport planning, both in Scandinavia and across the world.

“It’s vitally important that the benefits and costs of any potential service improvements are fully analysed, to ensure quality and value for money. By examining all the possible impacts – on travellers, on the environment, and on the general public – we will recommend how best to satisfy the growing demand for improved rapid rail travel in Denmark.”

The project will be developed over the next six months and followed by consultations. The final report will be presented to the Danish Parliament in the summer of 2013.

Atkins is involved in several complex rail projects across the Scandinavian region, including detailed design on Denmark’s Northwest Railway, a major signalling contract on Norway’s Follo Line, and a recently-awarded contract for design work on the Oslo Metro. Atkins also carried out detailed studies into a proposed high speed rail network in Norway.