In construction, the rail sector is one that is certainly embracing technology and digital transformation. The implementation of digital signalling systems, for example, is helping trains operate more efficiently, maintaining timely schedules even with greater frequency. Smart monitoring systems are providing operators with real time alerts for faults and helping with pre-emptive maintenance that reduces…
The announcement of a 9 month delay to the opening of the much anticipated new Crossrail project in London, not only made headlines in July 2018. It also highlighted a major concern in the infrastructure industry: Governments inability to deliver on major flagship infrastructure projects. With cost over runs in excess of £600m, it’s certainly…
Back in 2009, when the idea of a high speed railway linking the north and south of Britain was introduced, it sounded like a fine idea. It would cut travel time between major commercial centres and provide much needed infrastructure and investment all along the route. However, 10 years down the line the project has…
London is soon to follow in the footsteps of several other major cities. TfL has announced its plan to provide commuters with WiFi connectivity on the London Underground from 2019. It’s great news for commuters but making the business case work for contractors is going to be a little harder. Various attempts have been made…
Since the privatization of the railways, the main contractors involved in constructing rail infrastructure have been consistently plagued by boom and bust cycles due to funding inconsistencies. Projects typically start out with great momentum but as funding dries up contractors find themselves looking at smaller margins to get the project completed, on top of often…
Network Rail recently announced ambitious plans to upgrade the outdated Victorian rail transport system and it can’t come soon enough. With passenger numbers on the rise there is an urgent need for the railways to operate with greater efficiency and frequency. Converting to digital railways will enable rail operators to schedule trains closer together while…
It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster ride for the infrastructure construction sector in recent years largely due to funding issues. With the majority of funding coming from public sources, changes in budget allocations and budget cuts have put a stranglehold on many project developments. However, if the latest AMA Research report is anything to…
