Considered to be a very significant project in London, Pod-Trak was contracted to complete works which would extend the London Overground to make the city more accessible for 10,800 new homes.

The Barking Riverside project is essentially building a new community near to the Thames in East London. In order for these new homes, school and healthcare facilities to function effectively, an effective transport infrastructure system is essential. Pod-Trak focused on providing a rail system to this area, through an extension to the London Overground and commissioned by TfL, who we have a strong long-lasting relationship with.

As part of this project, Pod-Trak is contracted to deliver:

• A 4.5km extension to Barking Riverside, from the Tilbury Loop Line between Barking and Dagenham Dock stations to Barking Riverside
• Reconfiguration of Network Rail’s Ripple Lane goods yard to allow the extension to connect to the Tilbury Loop
• Continuation of the rail system over a new 1.5km viaduct into the heart of Barking Riverside

Laying the foundations for a new future
This project involves an extensive Permanent Way scope, including:

• Creating a new up a Tilbury Loop and up & down Barking Riverside lines
• Installation of new double track spur line on the viaduct (slab track circa 1.5km)
• Installation of new ballasted track
• Transition section between ballast and slab track
• Installation of new crossovers
• Track lubrication and buffer stops
• Stressing
• Installation of chainage plates, gradient signs and datum plates

Electrifying the route
London Overground trains are Electric Multiple Units (EMUs), so our team was well-prepared to manage the electrification project as well. The scope of the Traction / Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) works includes:

• Electrification of the Up & Down Barking Riverside Extension
• Installation of new series 2 OLE structures and catenary along with RC & EW the route
• Modifications / replacement to the existing infrastructure
• Upgrade to West Ham & Barking Feeder Stations
• New Neutral sections
• Testing and Commissioning of new Overhead Line Equipment

Civils – General / Ancillary
The benefit of working with Pod-Trak is our adaptability and our versatility. The nature of our business is multi-disciplinary, so we have the ability to complete civils works as well. This means that our teams have a consistent approach to the project. The scope of the civils general / ancillary works includes:

• Piling / Foundations
• Breakout and excavation work
• Foul Drainage and surface water
• Ducts / trough routes
• Installation of URX / UTX