Holly Cross ATFS – Greater Western Electrification Programme, Reading

CLIENT REQUIREMENTS & CHALLENGES

Supporting a nationally significant rail electrification upgrade

• Provide geotechnical and geoenvironmental consultancy for Holly Cross ATFS, a substation forming part of the Greater Western (TGW) electrification programme.

• Deliver a specification for ground investigation in line with current industry standards.

• Assess ground conditions for new substation structures, access roads, and hardstanding areas.

• Characterise shallow and deeper strata to inform both structural and civil design.

• Ensure works were aligned with the wider upgrade of the Reading Independent Feeder and Reading Lines.

OUR APPROACH & METHODOLOGY

Targeted investigation to inform structural and civil design

• Specification & Planning: Prepared a detailed Ground Investigation Specification to ensure works were compliant and risk-targeted.

• Borehole Drilling: Completed a series of strategically positioned boreholes to capture shallow and deep ground conditions.

• In-Situ Testing: Conducted shallow in-situ tests to provide data for pavement and access design.

• Laboratory Testing: Analysed samples for geotechnical parameters and environmental risks.

• Interpretive Reporting: Produced a Ground Investigation Report with recommendations for future detailed design.

RESULTS & DELIVERABLES

Informing safe, efficient delivery of the electrification programme

• Delivered an evidence-based ground model to support foundation and pavement design.

• Identified ground risks early, reducing uncertainty for Network Rail and contractors.

• Supplied an interpretive report that guided structural and civil design development.

• Contributed to the UK’s largest rail electrification programme by ensuring safe, compliant, and buildable design foundations.