Delivering essential rail upgrades 

As part of the framework, contractors will deliver a broad range of works aligned with Network Rail’s Strategic Business Plan. This includes low-complexity emergency callouts, planned preventative maintenance and small-scale civil engineering schemes. 

These activities will encompass geotechnical response works, bridge repairs, structural integrity projects, platform refurbishments and drainage clearance, alongside wider civil engineering tasks such as earthwork renewals, desilting operations and bridge strike response.  

Specialist ground engineering solutions by Mainmark are expected to play an increasingly important role in ensuring the long-term stability and performance of the network by addressing issues such as ground instability, voiding and settlement.  

“We’re looking forward to collaborating with Balfour Beatty to help deliver critical infrastructure works across the network during the CP7 period,” said Tom Kavanagh, General Manager at Mainmark UK. “Being selected to support Balfour Beatty on this framework is a fantastic opportunity for our team and aligns perfectly with our growth plans. It also strengthens our position within the UK rail supply chain.” 

Growing pressures on the rail network 

Rail infrastructure is facing increasing pressure from heavier freight loads, repeated vibration and extreme weather conditions. These issues can contribute to ground instability and settlement beneath rail lines and surrounding assets.  

Heavy rainfall, poor drainage and ground movement can weaken the soil supporting railway infrastructure, leading to voids beneath track structures, platforms and civil assets. This can affect track alignment, restrict line speeds and create operational safety risks. 

Beyond the track itself, subsidence can impact railway platforms, stations, depots, train yards, level crossings and bridge structures, making ground improvement works a critical part of maintaining network resilience.

Mainmark’s non-invasive solutions 

Our targeted solutions such as resin injection or computer-controlled grouting technology can strengthen weak ground conditions and fill subsurface voids without the need for excavation. The process allows large sections of track or platform structures to be treated in stages while keeping rail services operational wherever possible. 

In addition, these non-invasive solutions:

• Lift and support platform slabs affected by settlement

• Strengthen bridge supports and abutments to prevent ground movement

• Improve ground stability beneath depots and rail yards

Playing a vital role in the future 

Focusing on resilience, safety, and operational efficiency will continue to shape how rail infrastructure is maintained and upgraded. For more information, contact Mainmark’s rail infrastructure expert, David Hedley, to help scope the issue, confirm site constraints and identify the most efficient solution to keep programmes moving with minimal disruption.