Bank DLR Underground Station

Mission Accomplished: Overcoming Challenges at One of London’s Most Strategic Stations! 

ASH Construction Group are happy to share the successful completion of one of our most demanding and strategically vital projects: 1 mile of rerailing at the Bank DLR underground station during a 10-day blockade.

Why This Project Matters:
The existing rails, last replaced in the 1990s, had reached the end of their life, posing delay risks to train operations and passenger services. This project was critical to ensure the safety and reliability of the DLR network, which serves over 123 million journeys annually.

Strategic Importance of Bank Station:
Bank Station is a cornerstone of London’s transport infrastructure:
- At 41 meters (135 feet) below ground, it’s one of London’s deepest stations.
- Connects five TfL lines (DLR, Northern, Central, Circle, and District) and the National Rail network.
- Serves as a vital terminus for Docklands-bound commuters and a key link to Canary Wharf and the financial district.

Project Highlights:
- Installing 1 mile of new 80lb Rail. Long welded rails were infeasible. Instead, 90 rails (60ft each) were transported by road to our crane point and then manually hauled 2km into the tunnels using Iron Men and track trolleys.
- Installing 5 km of temporary ventilation cabling with 50 industrial fans to ensure clean airflow.
- Installing temporary fire doors, dust screening and heavy-duty protective sheeting to safeguard LUL and protect public areas.
- Installation and testing of 88 Thermit Welds.
- Navigated live signalling loop cables and axle counters to avoid disruptions to active services and installing negative return bond cables 
- Transported 270 tons of materials, plant, and equipment without use of RRVS more than a mile along the tracks into the underground station.

Safety & Environmental Achievements:
- Zero accidents or incidents during 13,000+ cumulative hours worked.
- 100+ close calls raised, showing proactive hazard management.
- Conducted 30 toolbox safety talks to reinforce a culture of safety.
- Deployed hybrid power systems and battery-powered tools to minimize environmental impact for zero emissions during use operation plus using battery-Powered generators supporting our lighting and power tools without emissions wherever possible.
- Eliminated over 2,000 sheets of paper through fully digital documentation systems.

This monumental project would not have been possible without the exceptional dedication, innovation, and teamwork of everyone involved. Together, we’ve set a new standard for infrastructure delivery. Thank you to everyone involved. 

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