Atkins Danish rail upgrade

Atkins will prepare the preliminary concept report for a major upgrade on the Aarhus to Hobro rail line in Denmark. The project report will be presented to the Danish Parliament in summer 2013.

Atkins will study how effectively travel time can be minimised and potential solutions. A spokesman added, “Potential solutions may involve closing of crossings, straightening of track curves or shortening the length of track. Another major element of the study will involve detailed assessment of the traffic and environmental impacts of the proposed improvements.”

The spokesman told T&TI “there is a possibility that there will be tunnel work involved, but it is too soon to say to what extend as the scope of the tunnel work has not been defined yet.”

Atkins project manager Hanne Funch said; “This is the first multidisciplinary project on Danish ground with Atkins as the sole consultant. It is strong testament to our proven skills and expertise in the rail sector and in transport planning, both in Scandinavia and across the world.

"It’s vitally important that the benefits and costs of any potential service improvements are fully analysed, to ensure quality and value for money. By examining all the possible impacts – on travellers, on the environment, and on the general public – we will recommend how best to satisfy the growing demand for improved rapid rail travel in Denmark.”