Van Elle’s Rail team has successfully delivered the design and installation of Circular Hollow Section (CHS) piles to support new overhead line equipment (OLE) at the Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre in Warwickshire, forming an important part of the wider improvements being made to the facility.
Once fully operational, the upgraded facility will play a critical role in the development and testing of the next generation of electric and multi-mode trains.
It will also incorporate the UK railway’s only 3.5 km test loop, providing a unique and controlled environment for advanced rail systems testing.
Working in partnership with Siemens, Van Elle provided essential foundations to enable new battery charging and electrification systems, enhancing the site’s capability to support innovation in rail testing and sustainable transport.
Designed for Efficiency and Performance
Our in-house design team developed a foundation solution tailored to the site conditions and Siemens’ technical requirements. Each pile was optimised for strength and stability, ensuring reliable performance while minimising environmental impact.
Early collaboration with Siemens during the design stage allowed for a cost-effective, buildable solution that integrated seamlessly with wider site upgrades, reducing on-site risks and helping keep the project on schedule.
Precision Delivery
Using our Movax and hammer attachments, the Rail team installed a total of 88No. CHS OLE foundations, each 610mm in diameter and ranging from 4 to 6 metres in length, delivered over three planned phases.
During the first phase, 21No. foundations between 4 and 5 metres in length were installed, incorporating both 6-boss head and drilled head configurations to accommodate a range of OLE structure types.
The second phase involved the installation of 57No. foundations, extending up to 6 metres, which included single-length piles fitted with boss heads and several drilled for pile cap adaptors.
The scheduled final visit, to allow completion of the underpass works, involved the installation of the final 10 No. 610 mm piles at depths between 5 m and 6 m. These were single-section, bossed piles, installed to facilitate the final stages of construction.
All works were completed safely, efficiently, and to programme, reflecting the team’s technical precision and strong coordination on site.
Enabling the Future of Sustainable Rail
The new foundations will support Siemens’ ongoing infrastructure upgrades at Long Marston, strengthening the site’s capability to deliver low-carbon and digital rail solutions in areas without existing electrification.
These enhancements reinforce the centre’s role as a key facility for testing and developing the next generation of rail technologies.
Siemens praised the team for their efficient mobilisation, cost-effective delivery, and strong on-site collaboration, highlighting the professionalism and clear communication demonstrated throughout the project.
Mark Boyd, Van Elle Rail Director, said: “We are delighted to play our part in this major redevelopment project. It supports innovation and sustainable rail infrastructure, and showcases the strength of collaboration and technical expertise that Van Elle brings to rail projects across the UK.”
For any enquiries regarding our rail capabilities, please contact us on 01773 580580 or email enquiries@van-elle.co.uk.
