Network Rail has awarded Atkins a contract for a scheme at Acton in west London to improve the reliability of passenger services and deliver increased freight capacity.

When Crossrail services begin in 2017, even more trains will travel along the Great Western main line (GWML) so work is needed to improve capacity in the area.

Atkins, the UK's largest engineering and design consultancy, will be responsible for the design element of the work to build a dive under at the west end of Acton freight yard and modifications to Acton yard. This will enable freight trains that head west along the main line to leave the yard without affecting passenger trains and provide increased capacity for freight.

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Robbie Burns, Network Rail's Programme Director for Crossrail, said: "Network Rail is transforming the railway to make Crossrail a success and this work at Acton will give passengers a more reliable service whilst providing more capacity in the Paddington approaches area. This scheme supports our vision to increase the modal share of rail by taking freight off roads and onto rail, reducing both traffic congestion and carbon emissions."

Richard Molloy, Atkins director, added: "We are delighted to have the opportunity to support Network Rail and the Crossrail programme in the design and engineering of the significant works at Acton. Not only will this project contribute to improving Britain's railway infrastructure, but it also reaffirms the role our industry can play as we look to a low-carbon future."

(CD/GK)