Media centre

Monday 22 Aug 2005

NETWORK RAIL MOTORS AHEAD IN BUILDING BRITAIN’S RAILWAY

Region & Route:

National

Maintenance workers around the country are set to benefit from a £12 million six-month contract awarded to Lloyds TSB Autolease for 1,200 new vehicles as part of a major vehicle upgrade by Network Rail.  This is the first set of awards, which will help achieve the regular replacement of the total fleet of 6,500 vehicles over a four-year rolling cycle. Over 1,000 specially commissioned Network Rail ‘Mess Vans’ will be delivered to depots and delivery units over the next six months.  These vehicles are the most up-to-date on the market and are designed for workers on the move.  They contain microwaves, water boilers and washing facilities, all fitted-out to high safety standards. The vehicles will be delivered at a rate of 200 per month. Network Rail’s Director, Maintenance Richard Fenny, said: “There is an on-going programme to improve working conditions for maintenance staff.  Upgrading the fleet will provide safer, more fuel efficient vans with better facilities for specialist staff who work around the clock.” Richard added: “The award of this contract underlines Network Rail’s drive to reduce costs and improve the condition of our assets.  More than £100 million has been saved in maintenance since it was brought in-house last year.  This is being achieved by cutting out duplication, realising efficiencies, embracing new technology and exploiting significant new purchasing power from the single national maintenance organisation.” Richard added: “There is an on-going programme to improve working conditions for maintenance staff.  Upgrading the fleet will provide safer, more fuel efficient vans with better facilities for specialist staff who work around the clock.” More than £10 million has been spent upgrading maintenance depots around the country improving facilities, including: better lighting at car parks, proper drying rooms and personal lockers for the thousands of maintenance workers across the network.  The company has also invested in improving physical railway access points, IT equipment and plant and small tools, which all help our workforce do a better job.