Transforming rail travel across the North

THE ASPIRATION
Bringing better rail journeys across the Pennines
The Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) is a multi-billion-pound programme transforming rail travel across the Pennines – from Manchester and Huddersfield to Leeds and York. Network Rail’s goal is to deliver more frequent, faster, greener trains running on a smoother, more reliable railway. While some parts of the project are still in development, significant work is underway to improve journeys for millions of passengers, with upgrades to tracks, signalling and bridges.

OUR RESPONSE
Project Management driving seamless delivery
We provided Project Management support, focusing on planning and project controls to keep this complex programme on track. Collaborating closely with the W3 Project Manager and the design and delivery teams, we developed an integrated, baselined schedule that streamlined design delivery and resource allocation. Our approach enhanced forecasting accuracy, enabled early risk identification and supported informed decision-making. This helped manage budgets effectively and kept progress transparent and on course throughout the programme.

THE RESULT
Clear plans, confident delivery
Our work secured client approval of the design delivery baseline, ensuring all stakeholders were aligned on a clear, realistic programme. Strong collaboration helped spot risks early and provided timely warnings to support commercial decisions. This smooth delivery of design packages played a key role in enabling timely construction of vital railway infrastructure, preventing costly delays.

THE LASTING IMPACT
Building a stronger, more reliable rail network
By improving planning and project controls, we laid the foundation for a railway upgrade that will benefit northern communities for decades. Our contribution supports Network Rail’s vision of a greener, faster, and more dependable service – transforming travel across the Pennines and beyond.

Find out more about our Project Management expertise at Ridge.