The upgrade of rail services in Greater Manchester has moved a step closer with the launch of three projects to assess and review future requirements, led by rail specialist SLC and global infrastructure consultancy firm, AECOM. The work follows SLC supporting AECOM last year in winning a place on Transport for Greater Manchester’s (TfGM’s) Transport Professional Services (TPS) framework.
The projects include leading the South Manchester and Stockport Station Requirements Assessment, developing an assessment framework for managing services along the Castlefield corridor, producing a review of the Strategic Outline Business Cases (SOBC) for a number of potential new stations in Greater Manchester and developing the Outline Business Case for a new station.
Ian Walters, Managing Director at SLC Rail said: “We’re pleased to be helping TfGM on these strategically important and vital pieces of work. This is the start of a very exciting journey to make a positive difference to this region’s transport network.
“These projects underpin long-term improvements to the region and cement TfGM’s vision of Greater Manchester having world-class connections that support long-term sustainable economic growth and access to opportunity for all.”
Stephen Gleave, Cities Director, Manchester at AECOM said: ”Through our work supporting the boroughs and towns of Greater Manchester, we know that network connections and rail hubs will play an important role in supporting the city region’s ambitious growth plans. These latest projects and our wider position on the TPS framework add to our long-standing relationship with TfGM, advising on all aspects of movement and travel. Our team brings the full breadth of technical expertise, working with SLC to deliver transformational change across the city region.”
Simon Elliott, Head of Rail Programme at TfGM said: “SLC and AECOM have clearly shown their expertise and will help us as we deliver Greater Manchester’s Bee Network – our vision for an integrated London-style transport system – and for our people, businesses, and communities, fulfilling their potential at the heart of a globalised and sustainable Northern Powerhouse economy.”
AECOM and SLC Rail have a well-established and long-standing working relationship on multiple projects in the UK, including the Northumberland Line and the West Midlands Rail Programme.
