Enable Infrastructure completes install of Platform Tactiles across Kent, Sussex, and Wessex for Network Rail
Enable Infrastructure completes install of Platform Tactiles across Kent, Sussex, and Wessex for Network Rail
July 1, 2022
Enable Infrastructure (formerly known as BCM Construction) finished the installation of Tactile Paving at Waterloo station in London last month and in doing so, an entire programme of works that first began in May 2021 throughout Kent, Sussex, and Wessex.
This installation programme followed a February 2020 review by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB). The review stipulated that rail stations across the UK are required to install tactile signage to identify the edge of the platform for visually impaired passengers.
As part of the subsequent action taken by Network Rail, Enable Infrastructure was then selected as the contractor across Kent, Sussex, and Wessex. The result being that Enable Infrastructure delivered tactile paving at 84 Stations total covering exactly 26,902 metres.
Designed and installed to prevent the visually impaired from potentially falling onto the track, tactile paving features a matrix of bumps on the surface which can be felt underfoot and are a vital safety component of the modern rail station platform.
The key deliverable in these projects was to undergo the installation of tactile paving and associated works as soon as possible to ensure that no further accidents happen and that stations are safe for all. Works were planned to utilise existing access opportunities, line blocks and track possessions.
This involves the surveying and planning of the works including access and distribution of materials all while maintaining services at the station and ensuring Network Rails ethos “Everyone Home Safe Every Day”.
Our design and engineering consultancy partners, Equate Design, expertly produced the design and surveying and Enable Infrastructure executed the works, showcasing the strength of the Enable Group’s turnkey solutions.
This programme was not without its challenges such as diverse weather conditions (tactile paving requires a minimum ambient temperature of 3c), last-minute access cancellations, variable conditions of platform surfaces, and availability of tactile paving. Yet Enable Infrastructure was able to overcome and surmounts these obstacles to successfully install thousands of metres of tactile paving:
Kent 51 Stations 10,905 metres
Sussex 20 Stations 6148 metres
Wessex 13 Stations 9039 metres
The successful conclusions of these works and ensuring the visually impaired can travel safely on our rail infrastructure is another demonstration of our mission to deliver social value through successful infrastructure projects.