Barrow-in-Furness Light Maintenance Depot

Overview

Northern Trains commissioned an upgrade of their Barrow-in-Furness light maintenance depot to modernise their fuelling and cleaning facilities.

Mason Clark Associates (MCA) were appointed by RTS Infrastructure Services to provide detailed design and construction support for improving and extending the depot’s fuelling road, so it can handle three car trains to make operations smoother and more efficient.

These improvements were designed to reduce pressure on other depots, improve turnaround times, and enhance service quality along the Cumbrian Coast.

Challenges and Solutions

Our project team faced several practical challenges during the upgrade of the Barrow train depot, which were tackled with thoughtful planning and collaboration:

• Working close to live train tracks raised safety concerns, surveys and tests were carried out in safe areas, and detailed safety plans were put in place.
• To keep the depot running smoothly during construction, a temporary fuelling road was installed on an adjacent siding.
• Coordination between different engineering disciplines and contractors was essential. Regular meetings helped maintain clear communication and progress.
• As the project progressed through each phase, our team delivered detailed design drawings, Network Rail submissions, and design risk assessments. We also provided design support during construction and produced as-built drawings to reflect site changes.
• Acting as advisor to the Principal Designer under CDM 2015 regulations, MCA ensured compliance with health and safety requirements throughout.

MCA's Contribution

Mason Clark Associates supported the project from initial feasibility through to completion.

Our role included:

• developing the layout and structural design of all new facilities, including acting as the Civil & Structural CRE (Contractor's Responsible Engineer) for the scheme.
• managing design risks,
• coordinating with specialist consultants,
• supporting planning, approvals, and construction.

Our contribution has delivered a modern, efficient depot that meets the operational needs of Northern Trains and supports improved service delivery across the region.

Results

The project was successfully delivered through all phases, with the design and construction support completed.

The new fuelling road is now fully operational, and the depot has significantly improved its servicing capacity and operational efficiency, thus supporting Northern Trains’ long-term goals for the region.