BAM Construction has been awarded a £30 million contract to build a new Network Rail signalling control centre in Basingstoke.
The operating centre, which will manage signalling for the Wessex region, is part of a major upgrade of signalling systems across the UK.
Over the next 15 to 30 years, Network Rail will build 12 of these new operating centres to take over the responsibilities of the 800 signal boxes currently in use.
As well as the new 13,600 sq/m site, a 60m-long pedestrian bridge will be built over the railway line.
BAM construction manager Chris Edwards, who led the construction of Network Rail’s headquarters in Milton Keynes, will oversee the Basingstoke project.
He said: “This is an important project as Network Rail looks to future-proof its critical rail operating centres across the UK.
“BAM is delighted to have been trusted to deliver another major scheme for Network Rail and is determined to ensure its work benefits not only staff and passengers but the wider economy and community in Basingstoke.”
Network Rail and BAM held a groundbreaking ceremony last month, with work set to be completed for November next year.
