British Track Completed Linking Hitachi Rail Factory to Network

Image Courtesy of Network Rail

The final track component was install at Merchant Park, connecting the factory with the rail network for the first time.

Network Rail, Story Contracting, Volker Rail and Hitachi Rail Europe turned the last Pandrol Clip at the Newton Aycliffe site which will deliver the next generation of high speed rail carriages to the UK.

The Pandrol Clip, a rail fastening, was used to fasten the rails to the railway sleepers. The final installation of the 35,000 fixings were installed by Story Contracting on behalf of Network Rail and was the final step to completing this track to Hitachi’s Rail Europe’s Facility.

Hitachi Rail Europe Factory

Phil Verster, Route Managing Director, Network Rail said: This final fixing signals an important milestone in this exciting project.  The Intercity Express Train will bring a step-change for passengers, enabling more and faster journeys.  This facility is an achievement in itself and will continue to bring economic benefits to the north east as well as maintaining the regions proud rail heritage.

I would like to thank Merchant Place Developments, Story Contracting and the many suppliers for all the hard work theyve put in to reach this stage.  Work to finish the signalling and power will complete later this year.

Rail Minister Claire Perry said: We are investing record amounts in our railways as part of our long-term economic plan.  Connecting the Hitachi train facility at Newton Aycliffe to the track is a key step in roll out of the InterCity Express programme, which will create hundreds of jobs locally and thousands more across the UK supply chain.

The trains made here will transform passengers journeys in the south west and north, with more seats on each train, more services, reduced journey times and improved reliability.