Contract awarded for Piccadilly line power upgrade

AN electrical infrastructure upgrade to prepare London Underground’s Piccadilly line for the arrival of the 94 new Siemens-built ‘Inspiro London’ trains in two years’ time will be carried out by UK Power Networks Services (UKPNS). The £40 million project to increase the electrical capacity of the route is due to be completed in June 2025, although the initial framework contract with UKPNS has a six-year duration, with scope for a two-year extension. It will comprise design and construction work to improve key substations and the installation of new electrical infrastructure, control systems and cables. The high voltage electrical upgrade will involve work above and below ground at 21 electricity substations. Planned works will take place at Cobourg Street, Manor House and Mansell Street. The line is scheduled to stay open throughout the project. To try to minimise disruption to passengers, it will be completed in phases.