Costain, in joint venture with Skanska, has announced that it has been awarded a £15 million contract by Crossrail, as part of the enabling works framework, to construct the Royal Oak Portal, the first tunnel-related construction contract for the Crossrail project.

The Royal Oak Portal is near to Paddington main line station and will act as the transition ramp for Crossrail trains when entering and exiting the central London tunnels.

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Work will begin immediately and is scheduled for completion in March 2011.

Andrew Wyllie, Chief Executive of Costain, commented: "We are delighted to have been awarded this first tunnel related construction contract for Crossrail. To be involved in the Crossrail project is a significant step forward for Costain and a valuable addition to our strong rail portfolio."

(CD/GK)