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Monday 18 May 2009

INVESTING IN YORK'S RAIL FUTURE

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Network Rail has completed a multi-million pound deal to buy the former Thrall site and Alliance House offices at Holgate in York.

The deal not only secures the future of the engineering arm of the company's National Delivery Service in York but also saves on funds currently paid to rent the site.

Martin Elwood, director of NDS at Network Rail said: “Securing this deal is a clear demonstration of Network Rail’s continued commitment to York as a railway city.

"The site is used to house and maintain the on-track vehicles we use to deal with the changing seasons; including leaf-busting trains, de-icing trains and ones that control trackside weeds and vegetation; as well as our rail delivery trains which are essential to engineering works.”

Around 40 Network Rail staff work full-time on the site but, with the addition of contractors, this can increase to around 100 at busy periods.

The purchase of the site also gives Network Rail greater flexibility in managing its office space in York. Future plans are still in development.

Hugh Bayley MP said: "The Carriage works are an important part of York's history, and excellent industrial premises. When I was told earlier this year that they were up for sale I was worried that they could be demolished or that Network Rail jobs currently at the Carriage works might be moved away. I raised my concerns with Ministers and I am delighted that Network Rail has bought the premises. This will safeguard the Network Rail jobs and keep the Carriage works in use for railway engineering."