TRANSPORT for Wales (TfW) has appointed LB Foster to undertake projects associated with its four-year £194m Station Modification Infrastructure Framework (SMIEF).
The programme is part of “the most comprehensive upgrade to rail infrastructure in Wales for a generation,” which will provide a better customer experience with newer trains, faster and more frequent services, more capacity and revitalised stations.
The SMIEF framework, which includes an option for a two-year extension, covers provision of non-complex works at stations, remedial works to existing structures, major and complex works at stations and infrastructure owner works. The latter include improvements to structures, fencing, civil engineering and buildings and other TfW-owned property.
SMIEF is divided into seven lots and LB Foster has been selected as contractor for Lot 4, covering Pan-Wales Station Information and Security Systems (SISS) Projects. LB Foster Europe head of technology services, Ms Emma Boura, says the aim of the programme is to improve the appearance, information systems and security at stations across the TfW network to help encourage modal shift to rail.
“The framework is all about delivering real, practical benefits for people who use railway stations on a day-to-day basis across Wales and its borders,” Boura says. “Drawing on our long experience of installing station information and security systems, we will enable station managers to operate a station safely and securely, for the railway police to investigate incidents, to inform passengers of train departures, to help operators maintain the timetable - and much more.”
The University of South Wales is due to host a TfW SMIEF - Meet the Contractor event for the supply chain on January 19 at its conference centre, with LB Foster among the companies due to be in attendance.
