Project : Reading Platform 3 Remodeling

Client : Railtrack GW

In order to provide reversal facilities for Virgin Trains Cross-Country service using Reading station, Railtrack contracted Mowlem Railways to design, construct, test and commission improved track layout and signaling system. The works have achieved Railtrack's aim as well as relieve the Reading Relief lines and platforms from perennial congestion and permit increases in traffic and speed with new route signing.

The works involved the following operations:

• Installation of a new 4Omph (EV21) facing crossover from the Up Main to the Down Main on the South Wales Main Line with connections provided into Platform 3 to permit entry and exit from Mains and Westbury lines.
• Removal of the existing '753' lead and associated carriage siding and the installation of a new CVs 13 lead and associated plain line rail. Also to replace the existing '757'trapping lead on the Platform 3 approach, connecting the Platform 3 to the Down Main, with a 15mph CVs 9.25.
• Removal of the existing '752' points DV turnout, replaced with an un-strengthened curved EVs 15 turnout suitable for 25mph operation into Platforms 1, 2 & 3 and associated plain line rail. The recovery of the existing Down Westbury plain line track components between '754' Points and '742A' Points, to be replaced with concrete bearers and 1 1 3A flat bottom rail.
• Installation of Point heating and transformer, M&E supply and control cubicles.
• Commissioning of Route Signal R36 at the east end of Reading Station and related signaling renewal works to achieve the connection carried out within the existing Western Region E10,000 style interlocking controlled from the Reading Power Signal Box (PSB).
• Construction of a 12.5m extension to the Country end of Platform 3 to facilitate the installation of a friction buffer stops in the platform bay and extend the platform to allow the acceptance of the new Virgin Cross Country trains and future stock types.