Seamless Upgrades
Seamless Upgrades: Delivering the Camps User Worked Crossing Renewal
At TES 2000, we're dedicated to building a safer, sustainable railway. Our recent work at the Camps User Worked Crossing exemplifies this commitment, showcasing our comprehensive capabilities from meticulous planning and innovative problem-solving to flawless execution.
The Challenge: Enhancing Safety at a Vital Crossing
User Worked Crossings (UWCs) are crucial points where the public can cross the railway. This particular crossing, located on the busy Down & Up Cambridge Lines, was identified by Network Rail for a significant upgrade. The objective was to replace its outdated wooden deck with a modern, more durable rubber tap-strail crossing, designed to enhance safety and provide a smoother interface for users.
Given the nature of the railway – under the control of Liverpool Street and Romford ECRO, and operating with a 25,000-volt AC overhead line electrification – these works demanded an exceptionally high level of planning, coordination, and safety management. The entire project had to be completed within a challenging 52-hour disruptive possession, highlighting the need for precision and efficiency.
TES 2000: Your Principal Contractor for Complex Renewals
Commissioned as the Principal Contractor by Network Rail, TES 2000 took full responsibility for the planning, execution, and safe delivery of these vital works. Our approach began long before any boots touched the ballast.
Our expert teams developed a comprehensive outline programme, securing full sign-off from Network Rail. This detailed planning included:
Dilapidation and Site Surveys: Including comprehensive Nairn’s profile surveys.
Pre and Post Heights and Staggers: Precision measurements provided by our dedicated TES Isolation Department.
Detailed Track and Civils Design: Ensuring every element was planned for optimal performance and safety.
Robust Safety Documentation: Creation of a comprehensive Construction Phase Plan (CPP), Work Package Plan (WPP), and associated risk assessments covering all activities and their respective control measures.
Crucially, our TES Isolation Department also managed and delivered the full isolation for the duration of the works, ensuring a safe working environment under the 25,000-volt AC overhead lines.
Executing the Works: Precision & Expertise
The scope of works completed by TES 2000 during the 52-hour possession was extensive:
Site Mobilisation: Implementing the 019 Standard, establishing full site welfare arrangements, lighting, waste management, and security fencing, alongside clear Health & Safety signage.
Core Renewal: A 300mm core dig over 20 yards, plus a 4.8m ramp in and out of the Down Cambridge line.
Sleeper Replacement: Replacing 25 x F27 sleepers with new, complete with associated smalls, on both the Down & Up Cambridge lines through the crossing.
New Crossing Installation: Installing the new rubber tap-strail crossing over both roads, along with new anti-trespass measures.
Access & Security: Installation of new access gates with robust wing fencing.
Track Integrity: Carrying out stressing and welding (2 x cold welds and 2 x stress welds) to ensure track stability, followed by rigorous inspection of all welds.
Heavy Plant & Logistics: Procurement of heavy digging plant and a full Possession (POS) Package through TXM, ensuring all necessary equipment and materials were on site precisely when needed.
Skilled Workforce: Deployment of expert welding teams and a dedicated welding inspector.
Technical Excellence: Overcoming Challenges with Innovation
At TES 2000, our technical capability is what truly sets us apart. Our Project Managers possess diverse skills in planning, PPS booking, GZAC line blockages, and comprehensive safety documentation creation (CPP, WPP, TBS, SSOWP planning). Our Engineer’s Track Handback competency (Levels 1-4) combined with full technical compliance, from Hallade surveys to full track designs, ensures every project is delivered to the highest standard.
During the pre-works technical assessment, our team proactively identified a critical issue: the specified dig depth within the renewal could not be achieved due to the presence of an underlying bridge deck. This was immediately raised with Network Rail and their RAMS (Risk Assessment and Method Statement) team, securing a derogation against the original design. This swift identification and resolution prevented significant delays and ensured the project could proceed safely.
To enhance delivery efficiency, the renewal was carried out using 2D lasers, which we found to be a quicker and easier method for achieving precise alignment. Post-works, all clearances to under-bridge girders were meticulously laser-swept and checked via Clear Route. Both roads were rigorously inspected with a Geismar diamond S trolley to confirm there were no gauge, cant, or twist issues. For ongoing monitoring, void meters were installed on both roads.
Furthermore, TES 2000 efficiently managed the Controlled Resting Temperature (CRT) on completion of works and for two weeks after. To ensure accuracy and timely temperature readings without requiring staff on the track, we strategically placed a Rail Temp Mate on site – a testament to our continuous drive for safety and operational excellence.
A Safer, Smoother Crossing for All
The successful delivery of the Camps User Worked Crossing renewal highlights TES 2000's commitment to operational excellence, proactive problem-solving, and the integration of advanced technical solutions. We are proud to have delivered a safer, more robust crossing, contributing to the continued safety and reliability of the UK's rail network.