PACE RAIL
NR NYL Re-signalling Recovery
Norwich, Yarmouth & Lowestoft
Value
£93m
Period
2018-20
The Norwich, Yarmouth & Lowestoft Electrologix programme was a complex signalling modernization project involving new computer-based interlocking technology, communications infrastructure, level crossing systems, and major track remodelling.
When the programme experienced significant delays, PACE was brought in to stabilize the project, rebuild stakeholder confidence, and lead the delivery teams toward a successful major blockade.
Value : £93
Period : 2018-20
Client : Network Rail
Programme : NYL
THE PROJECT
Putting PACE Into Your Delivery
The Norwich, Yarmouth Lowestoft Electrologix Project, the first of its type and scale in the UK introduced a vast amount of New Signalling computer based interlocking technology with the main hardware supplied by Alstom, and the signalling system design, testing and commissioning designed and implemented under Atkin’s ASM system. The technology used a new FTNX Network for signalling data and communications transmissions, and comprised of Six signalling areas geographically to form the network, and two fringe interfaces with Legacy signalling Systems. In addition to such an extension change of closing 16 signal boxes and sending full control to Colchester, this £90m+ project also introduced the largest railway GSM-R Phone system and both Integrated and Overlay Level Crossing systems into the scheme as well as including 3 major track remodelling schemes.
THE CHALLENGE
A Programme Under Severe Time Pressure
The project had fallen into significant delay, the effect of which meant the old signal boxes had to remain open, delaying many Network Rail staff from the planned post changes, and in this instance a lot of planned retirements. The impact to Greater Anglia was further railway
distribution due to the required railway access, all of this reducing the performance of their service to the travelling public. PACE were requested to take over programme Management, to stabilise the programme, and lead the Network Rail Project teams and interface with Atkins (and OSL Global), Alstom and Network Rail Southern Rail alliance.
PACE was contracted to solve these problems, working as an integrated part of the overground team and its commercial and technical partner organisations to solve the significant challenges faced by the programme board.
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WHAT WE DID
Taking Control. Creating Momentum.
Restructuring the Programme
Once the baseline position was understood, the programme was restructured around clearly defined work packages.
Workstreams were allocated geographically and aligned with the requirements for introducing the new signalling products.
This created clearer ownership and improved control across the delivery programme
Rebuilding Stakeholder Confidence
Following 18 months of delay, rebuilding confidence was a critical part of the recovery.
PACE introduced enhanced stakeholder management and greater transparency of programme information, creating a clearer and more honest view of progress, risks, access requirements, and delivery readiness.
Strategic Access Planning
The programme required significant railway access, making stakeholder confidence and public acceptability essential.
PACE developed a strategic access approach that balanced the construction requirements with the operational needs of Greater Anglia and the travelling public.
WHAT ARE ACHEIVED
From 18 Months of Delay to Award-Winning Delivery
Despite two major UK storm during the blockade in February 2019, all works were completed, including the full signalling systems, Swing-bridge interfaces, major track works and installation and commissioning of 6 level Crossings, 3 integrated user crossing, and 6 overlay user crossings. The project became a phenomenal success with exceptional stakeholder Management.
Following the success of the project, the project was shortlisted for the National Rail – Outstanding teamwork award in 2020, and also went on to win the Rail Business award for Infrastructure Project Excellence in 2021