Costain has been chosen to support the Department for Transport (DfT) by providing specialist technical and commercial advice to develop a range of rail infrastructure enhancement projects in the Western, Wales and Wessex regions.

The infrastructure company will lead a consortium of specialists including GHD, InteGen, North Star and SLC Rail to provide expertise and advisory services for DfT’s Rail Infrastructure North and West Directorate, with a focus on rail economic analysis and technical advice.

The contract runs for a two-year period, with the option for additional contract extensions.

Working closely with Network Rail and train operators to understand proposals and investment cases, the consortium will also undertake advisory services relating to elements such as timetable modelling, rolling stock, as well as depot and stabling requirements.

In addition to leading the consortium, Costain’s specific focus is expected to centre around early contract involvement and value engineering.

The consortium will work with DfT and the wider supply chain to assess the impact of climate change on the railway in relation to a range of issues including geotechnical behaviour, flooding and other aspects in order to enhance the resilience and operational performance of rail infrastructure and services.

 Tim DeBarro, central government director, transportation at Costain, said: “We’re looking forward to again working with the Department for Transport and the wider supply chain to advise on how railway services can improve people’s lives and drive economic prosperity in Wales and the Western regions, while remaining resilient to a changing climate and populations.

 “Through our multidisciplinary approach and strong collaboration with our consortium partners, we can ensure value-for-money from public funds and that we achieve the best outcomes for rail users, both passengers and freight.”