Project Overview
Aureos delivered major overhead line electrification renewals on the London, Tilbury and Southend (LTS) railway, modernising sections of an electrification system that had been in service since the early 1960s. The route serves as a key commuter corridor between London Fenchurch Street, Barking, Tilbury and Southend. Over the years, it has undergone numerous modifications, creating a complex operational environment. Aureos acted as Principal Contractor, delivering renewals alongside other major rail enhancement projects while managing interfaces with multiple contractors, stakeholders, train operators and infrastructure owners. The project focused on improving the long-term reliability, safety and performance of the route’s overhead line infrastructure while maintaining railway operations and minimising disruption to passengers.
Sector:
Transportation
Region:
London
Service:
Overhead Line Electrification (OLE), OLE Renewals
Client:
Network Rail
The Challenge
The LTS route contained a mixture of aging fixed-termination and auto-tension overhead line systems dating back to the 1960s, there had been numerous modifications made over the decades. Delivering renewals within this environment required careful planning and coordination across multiple organisations working to overlapping design and construction programmes. The project team needed to maximise productivity during limited access windows while ensuring resources, engineering capability and safety requirements were effectively managed throughout delivery.
Our Solution
Aureos adopted a collaborative and data-led approach to programme delivery. Using the TILOS planning tool, the team optimised resource allocation and ensured engineering and review requirements could be met throughout the programme.
By increasing weekend working productivity and introducing new midweek working opportunities, the team accelerated delivery, reducing the programme duration by up to five months and creating potential savings exceeding £5.5 million.
To further improve efficiency, Aureos established strategically located Road Rail Access Points, enhancing site access, increasing productivity and leaving a valuable legacy asset for future maintenance activities.
Recognising the importance of developing specialist skills, Aureos also launched a six-month training programme at its Crewe training facility and live project locations, helping to upskill both employees and supply chain partners in OLE competencies.
Risk Management and Safety
Managing multiple contractors across overlapping packages required robust safety and interface controls. Aureos used detailed interface management plans, weekly engineering reviews and Power BI dashboards to coordinate multiple contractors working on overlapping design and construction packages, ensuring clear ownership of scope and safety responsibilities. The team also worked closely with UK Power Networks Services to assess power supply interfaces and support safe integration with existing infrastructure.
Creating Long-Term Value
Innovation and skills development were central to the project's success. By deploying innovative mechanised wiring equipment, Aureos reduced resource demand by 30% per shift, improving productivity and reducing reliance on traditional wiring trains.
Alongside delivery efficiencies, the six-month training programme and supporting learning materials created a lasting skills legacy, strengthening capability across both the Aureos workforce and supply chain for future rail electrification projects.
