Client 

Network Rail
Location

F2P / North Down Lines
Delivery Window

3 Months

Scope

Level Crossing Commissioning Support | Signalling Upgrade Enablement | Site Logistics & Safe Systems of Work
Project Type

FTNx Network Upgrade / Rail Telecoms Infrastructure

Overview

During a critical 2-week blockade on the North Downs Line in Surrey, Deploy successfully supported Network Rail in the upgrade and final commissioning of 4 level crossings and 16 new signals. Our team safely manned all CCU crossings, enabling the works to be delivered on time, within budget, and with seamless integration into Network Rail’s live infrastructure.

This milestone was achieved through detailed planning, precise resource allocation, strong worksite logistics, and effective stakeholder coordination across a complex multi-site programme.

The Challenge

This project required Deploy to deliver safe, reliable operational coverage across multiple crossings during a high-pressure possession, while Network Rail executed major infrastructure upgrades. Key challenges included:

• Coordinating multiple workfronts across a defined blockade window
• Maintaining safe operation at CCU crossings during commissioning activity
• Supporting commissioning of new technology and updated signalling systems
• Delivering consistent welfare and workforce support across dispersed locations
• Ensuring clear lines of communication and escalation across a 24/7 environment

Additionally, due to scheduling and commissioning sequencing, two Obstacle Detection (OD) crossings needed to remain in Crossing Clear Unit (CCU) mode for a period post-commissioning, requiring robust operational control and continuity.

Deploy’s Solution

Deploy provided a fully planned and resourced delivery model to support safe commissioning and maintain crossing operations throughout the blockade.

Operational Resourcing & Safety Coverage

Deploy provided:

• CCU Operators across all required sites
• Contingency Level Crossing Attendants for resilience and rapid response
• 24-hour on-call support to maintain continuity and operational assurance
• Welfare drivers to support shift coverage and logistics
• Mobile welfare units deployed across all level crossings

Technology and Process Controls

To ensure correct crossing operation and strengthen site assurance, Deploy implemented:

• QR Codes at each barrier, supporting correct identification and operation of every crossing

Worksite Coordination

The success of commissioning was driven by:

• Comprehensive work planning and sequencing
• Effective site logistics and resource deployment
• High-quality stakeholder coordination with Network Rail and contractor teams
• Clear operational control for OD crossings remaining in CCU mode until OD functionality became active
  

Locations & Work Scope

The project scope was delivered across multiple sites, including:

F2P

• Liss Common
• Kings Fernsden
• Princes Bridge
• Milford
• Liss Station
• Sheet
• Farncombe East

North Down Lines

• Burrows Lane
• Brook

Key activities enabled and supported by Deploy included:

• Removal of existing foundations and bases
• Installation of new level crossing barrier bases
• RTL base installation
• Highway signage renewals
• Fencing renewals, including anti-trespass measures and adaptations
• Resurfacing and road marking at approach roads and crossing quadrants

Delivery Milestones

As part of the North Downs Line scheme, the blockade was successfully delivered, interfacing two MCB-CCTV crossings and two MK2-OD crossings with ASM and marking a first-of-its-kind technology deployment on the route. The works included modifications to an existing NX panel to incorporate axle counter functionality, the installation of 15 new iLS signals, and commissioning support for 16 upgraded signals between Shalford and Gomshall, delivering major improvements to level crossing safety and overall reliability.

Innovation & Safety Improvements

Two crossings introduced radar-based OD technology:

Brook and Burrows Lane

New radar technology scans the crossing prior to each train arrival, lowering barriers only when the route is confirmed clear — significantly improving safety and reducing unnecessary barrier downtime.

Chilworth and Tangley

New CCTV commissioning allows signallers to visually confirm the crossing is safe before lowering barriers, increasing control and safety assurance.

Notably, Burrows Lane, Tangley and Brook are currently among the highest-risk crossings on the route — the upgrades are expected to reduce the risk of incidents by up to 97%.

Outcome

Deploy enabled Network Rail to successfully complete commissioning across all planned sites, delivering an essential modernisation scheme that will improve reliability and unlock future capacity on the North Downs Line.

Project outcomes included:

• Delivered on programme within the 2-week blockade
• Delivered within budget
• Seamless integration with Network Rail's live infrastructure
• Strengthened stakeholder collaboration and working partnerships
• Improved operational reliability through upgraded signalling systems
• Major safety uplift through OD and CCTV-enabled crossings
  

Deploy’s Value Add

This project is an example of Deploy’s ability to deliver safe, well-coordinated operational support for high-impact rail commissioning activity — including working in live environments, managing complex logistics, and providing disciplined resource assurance across multiple sites.