What is Network Rail Asset Protection (ASPRO)?
Network Rail's Asset Protection and Optimisation (ASPRO) teams support third party organisations undertaking works on or near the operational railway. The process provides the framework for managing the engineering, construction and operational risks that proposed works may introduce to railway infrastructure and operations.
Where a project interfaces with the railway, early engagement with the relevant ASPRO team helps establish the requirements that need to be addressed through design, planning, assurance and construction delivery.
How do I know if my project requires Asset Protection engagement?
Asset Protection engagement may be required where proposed works are on, over, under or adjacent to the railway, or where construction activity could affect railway infrastructure or operations.
Typical interfaces include excavation, piling, lifting operations, temporary works, utilities, drainage, ground movement, vibration, work near overhead line equipment and access across or onto railway land. If there is potential for the works to affect the railway, early engagement should be considered.
When should we engage Network Rail Asset Protection?
As early as practicable. Railway interface requirements can influence design, construction methodology, programme, access and assurance arrangements. Early engagement allows these requirements to be identified and incorporated while the project still has the flexibility to respond to them.
Harcon can also support projects where the Asset Protection interface is already established or where engagement has commenced later in the programme.
What is the difference between a BAPA and an APA?
A Basic Asset Protection Agreement (BAPA) and Asset Protection Agreement (APA) are contractual arrangements used by Network Rail for third party works. The appropriate agreement depends on the nature and requirements of the project and is established through engagement with Network Rail.
Both provide arrangements for Network Rail's involvement in supporting and assuring the works, although the scope, responsibilities and commercial provisions will vary according to the agreement and project.
What information may Network Rail require for review and acceptance?
The information required will depend on the nature and stage of the project. It may include designs, engineering assurance information, construction methodologies, method statements, work package plans, temporary works information, monitoring proposals and details of access or operational railway arrangements.
Harcon coordinates the relevant submissions and associated assurance requirements with the project team and Network Rail.
Who is responsible for Network Rail's Asset Protection costs?
Network Rail may recover costs associated with the services and resources it provides in supporting third party works. The applicable charging and commercial arrangements depend on the agreement and requirements of the individual project.
Establishing these requirements early allows Network Rail costs and associated programme implications to be considered as part of project planning rather than emerging later in delivery.
Can Harcon support the wider engineering, construction and operational railway interface?
Yes. Our involvement can extend beyond Asset Protection interface management into construction and engineering assurance, temporary works oversight, work package assurance and rail interface planning.
Where required, we can also support access and possession planning, Safe Systems of Work and Any Line Open planning and management, providing continuity from project development through to site delivery.
