Construction Project Overview
East West Rail Phase Two (EWR2) is a major UK infrastructure project reconnecting communities between Bicester and Bedford as well as Milton Keynes and Aylesbury. It reopens a strategic rail route closed in the 1960s. The East West Rail Alliance, comprising Atkins, Laing O’Rourke, VolkerRail, and Network Rail, is delivering the project and has been awarded a Considerate Constructors Scheme Gold National Site Award for the incredible standards upheld during the project in 2023. The team has been praised for its performance and compliance with the scheme’s considerate construction guidelines.
Project Highlights
The project has demonstrated excellent management procedures, adhering to the Environment and Occupational Health and Safety British Standards. Community engagement has been exceptional and includes support for local businesses, schools, charities, and environmental groups. The project has also excelled at meeting apprenticeship and local workforce training targets, further supported by a strong partnership with a local provider for 2024. Carbon reduction has been prioritised, with a net zero target by 2050. Finally, the project team demonstrates a high standard of care and support for its workforce.
Innovations and Best Practices
The EWR2 team has successfully implemented several best practices. A highlight is their best practice community-tailored railway safety programme designed to educate the public about EWR2-specific railway conditions. The team’s dedication to biodiversity is seen in their support of the “Biodiversity Net Gain” 30-year habitat project, enhancing rail route ecosystems. Another best practice is the Menopause Awareness and Trials campaign, promoting women’s health with education sessions and workplace empathy initiatives.
Respecting the Community
Community engagement and outreach efforts consistently go above and beyond to involve residents and minimise disruption. The project actively supports the local community through charity initiatives and goodwill actions. Social value targets are carefully monitored and achievements are reported to the client.
Caring for the Environment
The project team has also been accredited to national environmental management standards, reflecting their focus on environmental protection and biodiversity. Alliance partners are committed to carbon reduction with a goal of net zero by 2050 or earlier.
Valuing the Workforce
The EWR2 project also exemplifies strong workforce care and support. All scheme checklist criteria, from health and safety to equality, diversity, inclusion (EDI), and worker development, are addressed to an exceptional standard. The project has implemented robust systems to ensure positive impacts are felt throughout the workforce and stakeholders.
Congratulations to the team for these outstanding levels of performance.