Network Rail has agreed an anticipated final cost with Crossrail Limited to deliver significant infrastructure enhancements on the rail network to enable Crossrail services to Maidenhead, Heathrow, Abbey Wood and Shenfield.

Network Rail’s work for Crossrail represents one of the largest commercial contracts in the company’s ten-year history and marks a further significant milestone in the delivery of the project. Network Rail will deliver the works within the £2.3bn funding available.

Network Rail is responsible for the elements of the Crossrail project which are above ground and contained within the existing network. This includes modifications at 27 surface stations, provision of power for the new rolling stock including overhead lines, and the building of a new, larger flyover at Stockley in Hillingdon to enable Crossrail services to operate to Heathrow.

Simon Kirby, managing director, Network Rail Infrastructure Projects, said: “Network Rail’s combined roles of operating and upgrading the existing railway mean that we are uniquely placed to deliver the above ground elements of this world-class project. We’ve spent two years working with our customer, Crossrail Limited, and we are confident that we have the right plan, expertise and resources. We and our supply partners are now completely focused on efficient delivery for passengers and our customer.”

Matthew White, Crossrail’s surface director, said: “To enable Crossrail services to operate, Network Rail will be undertaking a multi-billion upgrade of the rail network with major improvements planned for the Great Eastern and Great Western main lines including better stations, electrification, new and improved signalling and the integration of the new Crossrail tunnels with the existing railway.”

Crossrail trains will travel from Maidenhead and Heathrow, through new rail tunnels below central London, to Shenfield and Abbey Wood. The service will offer the ability to travel directly to the West End, the City and Canary Wharf without changing, reducing journey times and inconvenience.