Specialist rail foundation works on the TransPennine Route Upgrade West route
20th August 2026

Van Elle’s Rail team is making strong progress in delivering foundation works on the TransPennine Route Upgrade (TRU) West route, as part of the Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) works package on behalf of Amey between Huddersfield and Batley.

The project forms part of the wider TransPennine Route Upgrade programme. This is transforming rail connectivity and modernising infrastructure across the Pennines.

The works are supporting the electrification of the route through the installation of new OLE foundations,. This is helping to deliver faster, greener and more reliable journeys for passengers across the North of England.

The programme represents a significant foundation delivery package. It incorporates a range of specialist installation techniques. More than 530 No. foundations are being installed using CHS driven piles, concrete augered foundations and Down-the-Hole Hammer (DTHH) plunge piles. Techniques selected to suit varying ground conditions and site-specific constraints.

More than 190 No. foundations have now been successfully installed, with works continuing to progress across the route. The programme is being delivered safely and efficiently during planned blockades and possessions. This includes day, night and weekend operations, helping to maintain progress while minimising disruption to rail services throughout the two-year delivery programme.

The programme is supported by Van Elle’s specialist rail fleet and experienced operational teams, utilising Colmar T12000FS and Colmar T10000FSC machines alongside bespoke attachments, including the VESPA Piling Mast, Movax SG65 and BSP DXRT30.

Dave Warner, Director of Specialist Piling & Rail at Van Elle, said: “We are proud to continue our strong working relationship with Amey as we make progress on this important phase of the TransPennine Route Upgrade. The successful delivery of these rail foundations is fundamental to enabling the electrification of the route. It also reflects the collaborative approach required to deliver complex infrastructure safely and efficiently on a live railway.”

 

Specialist rail foundation solutions

Van Elle provides specialist piling and foundation solutions for complex rail infrastructure projects. We combine experienced teams, specialist equipment and a range of installation techniques to meet the requirements of challenging site conditions and live railway environments.

Learn more about our rail capabilities, or for project enquiries, contact our team at enquiries@van-elle.co.uk or complete our contact form.

 

Van Elle Rail team installing specialist foundations for the TransPennine Route Upgrade West route
Specialist Rail foundation works being delivered for the TransPennine Route Upgrade West route