Strabag UK wins main works contract for Radlett Freight Interchange in Hertfordshire

Strabag UK has been awarded the contract for the main works of the Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SRFI) at Segro Logistics Park Radlett. The Radlett SRFI is being constructed on behalf of British real estate investment Trust Segro, which will own the new interchange to serve the Midland Main Line railway via a new two road rail connection. The package of works contracted to Strabag UK includes the construction of the rail terminal, the preparation of plots for up the site's warehouses and other associated infrastructure, such as roads within the site.

The wider interchange project is set to be a state-of-the-art facility, located to optimise rail freight logistics. It will serve as a hub for the efficient movement of goods and will include the construction of extensive rail infrastructure, warehousing and distribution facilities. The Radlett SRFI represents a critical investment in the UK's freight transport infrastructure, likely to boost efficiency in logistics and distribution while showcasing advancements in construction technology.

It will be one of 20 SRFIs in the UK and the only one serving the London area. It will span approximately 405ha, incorporating 335,000m2 of advanced, highly sustainable logistics warehouse space, enveloped in 240ha of managed woodland, conservation grazing and public country park. The multi-million pound development, located at the former Radlett Aerodrome site in Hertfordshire, also incorporates a new underpass as well as overhead line equipment works, lineside civils, installation of switches and crossings for the main line connection and signalling.

The project reached a significant milestone in December with the completion of a complex box slide involving a 6,000t bridge structure. This operation was conducted beneath the Midland Main Line rail network near St Albans, forming part of a broader initiative to create a new rail-to-road freight depot on the site of the former Radlett Aerodrome. The development is aimed at enhancing freight transport connections and requires the establishment of a new rail link to the Midland Main Line.

This involves constructing an embankment and an underbridge that will enable the new rail chord to travel beneath the existing four tracks of the Midland Main Line. Principal contractor VolkerFitzpatrick spent nine months constructing the cast in-situ underbridge next to the rail line. Strabag UK build subdivision technical director Ian Burford said: "By shifting freight from road to rail, this project will play a major role in cutting carbon emissions and reducing road congestion.

"We look forward to working closely with SEGRO and other delivery partners to deliver this transformative project, maximising its sustainable legacy. "This success is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of our teams, and we look forward to delivering another landmark project for the UK." Segro national markets senior director Charles Blake said: "We're pleased to be working with Strabag UK on this vital next phase of Segro Logistics Park Radlett."

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