[caption id="attachment_50047" align="alignright" width="300"] The station upgrades as part of the GRAHAM programme.[/caption] GRAHAM has been appointed to construct and upgrade three railway stations as part of Europe’s largest infrastructure project – Crossrail.

Fully integrated with existing transport network

To be known as the Elizabeth Line when services begin through central London in 2020, the new railway system will be fully integrated with the existing transport network. It will stretch more than 60 miles (about 100km) from Reading and Heathrow in the west, and through central tunnels across to Shenfield and Abbey Wood in the east. In order to improve journey times, ease congestion and offer better connectivity for around 200 million passengers each year, many of the stations along the route require significant upgrading, including access for all and platform extension works. [caption id="attachment_50048" align="alignright" width="300"] The West Ealing station.[/caption] GRAHAM will construct two completely new stations in West Ealing and Acton Mainline. The national contractor will also significantly remodel Ealing Broadway. Valued at £46 million, all three schemes located on the Great Western Main Line fall under the Crossrail West Enhanced Stations Phase 2 programme. Work, on behalf of Network Rail, is anticipated to begin imminently with completion scheduled for late 2020. Commenting on the success, Jonny Kerr, GRAHAM rail director, said: “We are delighted to have been appointed to this nationally important infrastructure project that will help transform rail transport in London and the southeast. “Our selection is recognition of the collaborative relationship which we have developed with Network Rail. “It also demonstrates our reputation for delivering excellence in the rail sector having recently completed a number of schemes including Bellenden and Westdown Bridges. Currently, we are completing transformative projects such as the Scarborough Train Care Facility and Portrush train station. “We are proud that our work on the Great Western Main Line will help to provide a step change in public transport for the people of Ealing.” [caption id="attachment_50049" align="alignright" width="300"] Acton Mainline station.[/caption]

Full service during 18-month programme

GRAHAM has been tasked with maintaining full service during the 18-month programme. The West Ealing station works involve the construction of a new station, interior fit-out, telecommunications, step free access between platforms and street level, and the provision of ticket windows within the ticket office. The Acton Mainline station is a reciprocal new build station project. The Ealing Broadway station scheme involves the construction of a new curved canopy, new glass structures, a new entrance, and a ticket hall with capacity for 17 standard ticket gates and one wide gate. It will also feature platform extensions to accommodate the new Elizabeth Line trains, four new lifts, improved staircases and new toilet facilities.