BAM starts on £30m Network Rail operating centre

The three-storey building will act as a signalling control centre for the Wessex region. The 13,600 m² facility will include internal and external training facilities, as well as office space for rail staff. It forms part of Network Rail’s strategy to consolidate its operating centres across the UK.

Failsafe mechanisms will be included to ensure the centre can operate in the event of a natural or man-made disaster, including electricity supply from two substations.

BAM is using building information modelling (BIM) for maximum construction efficiency.

A BREEAM Very Good rating is targeted, with sustainability measures to include combined heat and power generation.

The project also includes construction of a 60m-long pedestrian bridge over the railway line to improve access.

Completion is scheduled for November 2014.

BAM construction manager Chris Edwards, who last year delivered Network Rail’s flagship national centre in Milton Keynes, will oversee the Basingstoke scheme. He said: “This is an important project as Network Rail looks to future-proof its critical rail operating centres across the UK. BAM is delighted to have been trusted to deliver another major scheme for Network Rail and is determined to ensure its work benefits not only staff and passengers but the wider economy and community in Basingstoke.”

A groundbreaking ceremony last week was attended by (below, left to right):  Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council deputy leader Ranil Jayawardena; Network Rail commercial director Sam McCarthy; BAM Construct executive director Richard Bailey; local MP Maria Miller; and BAM construction manager Chris Edwards.

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