Wigan to Bolton electrification, UK

The delivery of the Wigan to Bolton Electrification (W2B) project is a key investment. It will modernise railway services in the Northwest of England and supports Network Rail efforts to achieve net-zero ambitions. 

Modernising rail services in the Northwest of England  

The W2B project was part of a wider investment to modernise rail services across the Northwest of England. It involved electrifying the route between Wigan and Bolton as well as making essential signalling improvements.  

The scheme supports the UK’s decarbonisation goals by closing gaps in the electrified transport network. It improves operational resilience and enables future service enhancements.  

To accommodate the new electrification equipment, including the installation of 25kV overhead electric lines, the route required significant upgrades. Working with Kier Infrastructure and SPL Powerlines, the project team delivered works including the rebuilding of five overbridges. They also lifted two others, and lowered the track beneath a main road bridge. The project also delivered upgrades to signalling, telecommunications and high‑voltage cabling. 

The project lifecycle also saw the extension of the platforms at three stations, with each being lengthened to 144m to accommodate six‑car trains. This will enable increased passenger capacity on key commuter routes in the future. 

Delivering rail resilience 

We supported Network Rail by providing our project management expertise through a Scheme Project Manager and an Assistant Project Manager who worked alongside and strengthened the core project team. 

We successfully delivered all assigned work packages, drawing on our sector experience and collaborative approach.  

In the critical phase of the project leading up to switching on the new overhead line infrastructure, we provided support to help complete the key assurance processes.  

We also led the Common Safety Method (CSM) and interoperability processes. This ensured the safe integration of the new infrastructure with the existing railway. We collaborated with key industry and regulatory bodies and fully met every requirement. 

Supporting sustainable mobility 

Electrifying the route allows train operators to replace older diesel trains with cleaner, modern electric models. This supports the UK’s goal of reaching net zero by 2050. It reduces carbon emissions and lowers long‑term operating costs. 

Communities along the route will also benefit from quieter, cleaner services that help reduce noise and air pollution. 

Longer trains, with greater capacity, will ease overcrowding and give passengers a more comfortable and reliable journey.