21.10.14
Network Rail moves into HQ for south Wales electrification
Network Rail and ABC Electrification have opened a new headquarters in Newport city centre for the multi-million pound electrification of the South Wales Main Line.
One hundred staff from the two companies are moving into Norwich House, Gold Tips: 8,038 sq ft of office space with views over the rail line they will be working on.
Staff are expected to complete the move by the end of the week.
Electric stock – Hitachi’s Super Express Class 800s, delivered under the Intercity Express Programme (IEP) from 2017 – will help deliver improved journeys between south Wales and London, with 20 minutes expected to be shaved off the trip between Cardiff and London. The work is expected to be completed in 2018.
Dan Tipper, Network Rail’s programme manager for electrification, said: “Norwich House is a superb location that gives us great access to the rail network.
“It’s not just through this lease agreement that we’re investing in Newport. By improving connectivity and reducing journey times to London, electrification will also help boost the economy of the city.”
Brian Fisher, programme director of ABC Electrification, said: "Norwich House, with its location overlooking the railway line and with good access to the M4, is perfect for our needs.
"The offices will be the nerve centre of our work helping Network Rail electrify the South Wales Main Line.
"Refurbishment work on the building is progressing to plan and we will be taking possession of the property and moving staff in immediately."