Kier Construction has been awarded a £27m contract by Network Rail to renew the large barrel-vaulted glazed roof at King's Cross Station.

Work, due to begin in May 2009, involves the installation of a new glazed roof for the main train shed. This will entail the installation of 15,000sq m of glazing of which 2,500sq m is photovoltaic glass that will generate 10 per cent of the station's electricity requirements.

-- Advertisement --

All work will proceed while the station remains fully operational below. An innovative roof access system will be used which will avoid disruption to the travelling public. Work also involves repair, refurbishment and renewal of the main wrought iron structure to restore the 1850's Grade I listed building to its former glory.

The three-year contract, which forms part of Network Rail's £450m upgrade of the station, is likely to employ 100 operatives at its peak.

Kier Group Chief Executive John Dodds commented: "We are delighted to be involved in such an innovative and high profile project, which will be viewed by hundreds of thousands of people every day. This is a key part of the redevelopment of King's Cross Station and builds on Kier's existing relationship with Network Rail."

(CD/JM)