Rail News – Early January 2025
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A milestone has been reached in plans for a rail innovation and training centre in Barrow Hill, Staveley. The Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe), part of the Staveley Town Deal, will provide skills training, research facilities and space for rail businesses.
Chesterfield Borough Council has appointed Stepnell as the contractor, with work set to start in early 2025 and finish by year-end. Located near the Barrow Hill Roundhouse, the centre will include classrooms, research labs and commercial offices.
A Siemens Mobility and Costain joint venture (JV) has been awarded a £300m contract to deliver high voltage power supply systems for HS2.
The long-term deal will see the partners supply the systems throughout the entire 225km route between London and the West Midlands. Both companies will draw on extensive mega-project experience, including the Elizabeth line and the East Coast Main Line Power Supply Upgrade.
The JV will be responsible for designing, manufacturing, supplying, installing, testing, commissioning and maintaining high voltage power supply systems between London and Birmingham. Following completion of the design and build contract there will be a separate seven-year maintenance contract valued at £32m for the JV.