New overhead line facility opens in Crewe

An innovative approach to overhead line fabrication has led to the opening of a third fabrication facility in Crewe.

The new facility, officially opened by Network Rail’s Major Programme Director, Chris Montgomery on 4 April, is the culmination of three years’ work by VolkerRail and Unipart Rail and will pre-assemble all overhead line material for Network Rail’s North West Electrification Programme – phase 3 (NWEP3) project.

This new way of precision prefabrication provides just-in-time delivery and a high degree of traceability and material control to the site. When compared to conventional methods, the system has proven to significantly reduce waste, material rework and procurement lead times.

“This is a fantastic example of our supply chain working together to help deliver electrification more efficiently,” said Mr Montgomery. “I am delighted to open the new facility in Crewe which will play a vital role in the success of the Great North Rail Project, delivering better journeys for passengers between Preston and Blackpool.”

This facility is the first of its kind to use Unipart Rail’s Uni-TracePlus software, which provides live status information of materials both in the facility and out on site for components and assemblies; resulting in minimal-to-zero reworks, as well as asset tracking for Network Rail upon project completion.

This investment secures job roles in Crewe, as well as apprentice roles.