Engineering trains are a significant part of the rail freight sector. They support the entirety of the railway. In Britain, GB Railfreight (GBRf) one of the country’s largest rail freight operators, has extended its contract for those support services with Network Rail, the owner and infrastructure manager of the UK mainline railway network.
Network Rail has been eager to celebrate its recently approved programme of engineering works and renewals. All those ambitious enhancements require the support of the rail freight sector. Not surprisingly, the sector has stepped up, once again. Signing on the dotted line, GB Railfreight has agreed to continue providing critical services for two more years with an option for a third. They say they’re essential for the smooth operation Britain’s railways. This includes the provision of possession trains and the movement of Network Rail wagons to support engineering trains. GBRf say they’ll dedicate up to 16 daily trains to network services.
Move essential engineering materials across the country
GB Railfreight has been extending its engagement with Network Rail for some time. The London-headquartered business only recently established their highly visible operations base at Peterborough, adjacent to the East Coast Main Line. That leaves them well placed to service the needs of the network management agency.
“We have extended our contract with GB Railfreight”, said Mark Dickinson, Director, Supply Chain Services at Network Rail. “We can continue to move our essential engineering materials safely and efficiently across the country. The trains support projects that deliver a better railway for passengers and freight customers.”
Operate bulk services to Logistics Delivery Centres
However, it’s not just about familiar engineering trains, that passengers may see from the seat of a rail replacement bus service. GBRf will continue to operate bulk services, facilitating the transportation of stone from quarries to Network Rail’s Logistics Delivery Centres (LDCs). The operator allocates up to four daily trains for bulk services. GBRf say, this essential function ensures a steady supply of materials to key locations, including the LDCs.
The agreement includes the continuation of GBRf’s direct operation of the LDCs across England, at Whitemoor, Eastleigh and Bescot. These strategic locations play a pivotal role, enabling efficient distribution of materials and equipment necessary for the successful delivery of maintenance, renewal, and enhancement projects across the rail network. “We are delighted to extend our partnership with Network Rail, further cementing our role in supporting the operation and maintenance of the UK’s rail infrastructure”, said John Smith, GBRf’s CEO. “We’re proud to deliver reliable and high-quality services that contribute to the continued success of the UK rail industry.”
