An industry expert is to carry out a review into the barriers which prevent Network Rail from carrying out its alternative project delivery models.

Professor Peter Hansford will chair the competition and contestability review, which will examine barriers in all elements of delivering projects.

The Rail Delivery Group (RDG) created a project group earlier this year to investigate alternative ways to deliver and finance enhancements. Comprising of various industry representatives, a report due at the end of this year will feed into Mr Hansford's review.

With over 40 years' experience in major UK infrastructure and building projects, Mr Hansford has helped deliver complex infrastructure projects and carried out high profile strategic reviews. He was also previously chief construction advisor to the UK Government.

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As a professor of construction and infrastructure policy at University College London, Mr Hansford will start the review with immediate effect. A report is due to be produced in spring next year.

Network Rail Chief Executive, Mark Carne, said: "We need to act more like a private business with customers' needs at the heart of everything we do. Led by Peter, this review is due to start immediately and demonstrates mine and the company's commitment to identify and break down any barriers that currently discourage either third party funding and financing of projects, innovation or new models of delivery."

Mr Hansford added: "Having worked for many years on both delivering and reviewing complex infrastructure projects, I understand the complexities involved to ensure competition is encouraged in order to get the best deal for customers.

"I will be identifying and addressing all barriers – building on the work already underway by the RDG and Network Rail in investigating alternative ways to finance enhancements and reviewing asset protection processes."

(LM/MH)