Image Credit: Network Rail
Colas Rail UK is pleased to announce that we have been awarded a two-year contract by Network Rail for the delivery of Signalling & Telecoms (S&T) and Power infrastructure as part of the reopening of the Portishead and Pill line.
Under this contract, Colas Rail UK will support the reintroduction of passenger rail services between Pill and Portishead as part of the MetroWest Phase 1b programme, a key component of the wider MetroWest initiative to improve transport connectivity across the region. The scope of work includes:
Under this contract, Colas Rail UK will support the reintroduction of passenger rail services between Pill and Portishead as part of the MetroWest Phase 1b programme, a key component of the wider MetroWest initiative to improve transport connectivity across the region. The scope of work includes:
- Reopening 4.5 km of disused railway between Pill and Portishead
- Installation of a new junction at Pill
- Reinstatement of Platform 3 at Pill Station
- Renewal of the life‑expired junction at Parson Street
- Extension of the signalling system beyond Ashton Junction
- Removal of the current Token operation to Portbury Dock
- Introduction of a new diverse FTN telecoms network
Through its Signalling Framework contract, Colas Rail UK will provide full design, build and commissioning services across the signalling, power and telecoms elements of the scheme.
The programme is scheduled to commence in April 2026, with final commissioning planned for March 2028.
Colas Rail UK’s Infrastructure division secured the contract following a competitive tender process as part of our ongoing participation in Network Rail’s Signalling & Telecommunications Western Framework.
L-R Front Row – Mike Bell North Somerset Council, Helen Godwin Mayor of the West of England, Marcus Jones Network Rail
Ondrej Roubicek, Deputy CEO said “We are proud to have been awarded the contract to design and install the new digital signalling system on the Portishead Line.
“This investment will support improved journey times and a more reliable railway, delivering a better experience for passengers. It will also create opportunities to generate lasting social value through local employment, skills development, and support for communities along the route.”
Gavin Jones, Signalling Director said “We are delighted to support a project that will deliver long lasting benefits for the local community long after its completion.
“We look forward to getting started and to working closely with our delivery partners, including our colleagues in the South Rail Systems Alliance who will undertake the Parson Street Track Renewal, to bring this important scheme to life.”
First published: 27th May 2026