The TRU is a major programme of railway improvements across the Pennines to improve connections between Manchester, Huddersfield, Leeds and York. The W2BC project covers the 29km between Stalybridge and Huddersfield.
Working collaboratively within a major delivery organisation, Cowi will develop engineering solutions for the route with the objective of minimising impacts on adjacent communities, reducing construction duration and costs, all with sustainability and safety oversight.
Cowi will be responsible for the tunnelling works for three Victorian era tunnels: Stalybridge tunnel, Scout tunnel and Standedge tunnel. Works include accommodation for W12 gauge clearance and electrification, including 1.7km of track slab installation to allow for track lowering. This will enable larger freight trains to pass through.
The company will also deliver geotechnical work, focusing on retaining walls and earthwork stability, and off-track drainage enhancements to increase flood resilience.
Andy Sloan, managing director in the UK, said Cowi was looking forward to collaborating closely with TRU and its supply chain through its new hub and spoke model.
“The work presents unique challenges due to the age of the infrastructure, requiring a balance between modern engineering solutions and the preservation of historical integrity. Our teams have been working on the TRU project for over seven years so we are delighted to continue our involvement on this additional section of the programme,” he said.
