Atkins, the largest UK consultant engineer in the rail sector, has secured the services of a Plymouth-based team of specialist engineers. The team is comprised of some twenty signalling, systems and telecommunications engineers with extensive experience in the design and delivery of turnkey light rail projects, cabs signalled / semi-automatic metro systems and mainline European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) projects worldwide.

Of international repute, members of the new Plymouth team have demonstrated strong technical and managerial skills in the successful execution of a number of metro and light rail projects across Europe, as well as control centre design and installations in the UK. Similarly, many of the team have gained substantial ERTMS knowledge through pilot-line schemes and major development projects overseas.

This expertise complements an established skill base within Atkins, meaning that an extended range of services can be offered to existing and new clients, particularly in the light rail, metro and ERTMS markets.

To ensure seamless integration, the Plymouth team have received tailored and specific training in crucial elements of Atkins’ business management system. An Atkins support team has also been deployed to assist in all aspects of the integration process so that the new Plymouth office is fully operational and client-focused with immediate effect.

David Tonkin, managing director of Atkins’ rail business, says: “I am pleased that we have secured a team which will provide an excellent blend of skills to meet the growing demand for rail consultancy in the UK and overseas.”