As part of improvements to transport links and capacity for the London 2012 Games which will allow trains to run between Stratford Station on Ruckholt Road Junction, the project will involve an extension of Stratford Station Platform, in order to facilitate 8 car trains, the remodelling of the existing signalling system to allow trains to run in either directions on both lines, 12 new OHLE stanchions will be erected and new Permanent Way layouts are to be wired to suit bi-directional running.

Permanent Way works will include the realignment of two miles of plain line, new CV ‘scissor´ layout, a new CV turnout, the diversion of existing drainage, lineside walkways and plain lining of the depot entrance at Thornton fields. There will also be a requirement for telecommunications works and the installation of Electrifications and Plant Systems.

VolkerRail Projects will be erecting site accommodation adjacent to Stratford station which is expected to house 25 permanent office staff and between 10 - 50 site staff at any one time.

The program of works began in May and will last a total of five months, with overall completion scheduled for October 2008. As principle contractor, VolkerRail Projects will be supported by VolkerRail Signalling, VolkerRail Power, VolkerRail Plant, VolkerRail Welding services, VolkerFitzpatrick and Mott MacDonald.

Project Manager Calvin Trill comments, "We are delighted to have been awarded this project. It is the first major Network Rail Project to be awarded since the 6 to 4 announcements, and shows that NWR have confidence in our delivery of such critical, high profile, multidisciplinary projects."