VolkerRail appointed to Scotland’s Signalling, Power and Communications Framework

This five year framework, with a three year extension option based on performance, covers the delivery of renewals and enhancements for signalling, power and distribution, level crossings and telecoms across Scotland, throughout Control Period 7.

Rail is part of the fabric of Scotland’s economy, providing vital public services that connect people with destinations and goods with markets, for strong economic growth. 

In April, Network Rail announced the start of its five-year investment plan to deliver a safe, green, reliable railway for Scotland’s passengers, freight customers and taxpayers. 

This framework is part of the new Scotland Civils Framework, which will see Network Rail and contractors deliver works worth up to £1.3bn. 

Liam Sumpter, managing director, Network Rail Scotland, said: “We’re investing up to £1.3bn in these framework contracts to maintain and improve our infrastructure across Scotland.

“The awarding of these contracts will help us continue to deliver a railway that is safe and reliable for passengers and freight. 

“We’re excited to once again be partnering with Taziker, AmcoGiffen, Story and QTS and we’re looking forward to welcoming VolkerRail on to Scotland’s Railway family.”

This appointment follows on from Network Rail’s Train Control Systems Framework, where VolkerRail - in consortium with Thales - is appointed on Lot 2: Digital Signalling using European Train Control System technology, aimed to revolutionise signalling across Britain. VolkerRail also continues to undertake an extensive programme of signalling enhancement and renewals across the North West and Central region.

Niall McCreanor, VolkerRail’s director of specialist businesses commented: “VolkerRail has extensive experience in signalling, telecoms and power renewals and enhancements, and we have spent considerable time building our presence in Scotland to better understand the needs of Scotland’s railway, to ensure we can provide the best possible service.”

“We look forward to working collaboratively with Network Rail and Scotland’s Railway to deliver efficient outputs in line with their key strategic themes.”

Delivery works are expected to commence in 2025, following programme development, with South West Scotland Signalling Life Extension works, and Glasgow Central Station Telecoms already in discussion.