Abacus was Signalling Solutions LTD (SSL)’s first choice of partner for the Southampton works, running from December 2009 to 2011.

The scale

SSL engaged Abacus to provide commercial services on their £11m contract with Network Rail to facilitate the replacement of the existing Solid State interlocking signalling system with Alstom’s new Smartlock 400 Computer based interlocking system.

The challenge

The existing ageing Solid State system had been installed in the 1980s. Abacus was contracted to help install the new computer based system on the network connecting Southampton, Farnborough, Andover, Reading and Micheldever.

The project included review of the GRIP 4 design, renewal of five remote interlockings and installation of five Relocatable Equipment Buildings (REBs) incorporating Balfour Beatty SA380 remote monitoring systems.

Abacus also oversaw installation of Smartlock Panel Mulitiplexers and SSL’s Computer Aided Testing System (CATS). Works included civils, power and telecoms and cabling installation.

Delivery

Abacus provided commercial services to SSL from the outset. The project was delivered successfully, to scope, on time and on budget.

“I have worked with Abacus for many projects over the last ten years and due to their professionalism always choose to employ them where possible.”
Programme Director – Alstom

Our work included

• Tender analysis for internal cost reporting
• Commercial procurement/management of 33 subcontracts (fixed price L&M and labour)
• Contract change control and Final account settlement
• Post contract administration and cost control
• Provision of information to SSL’s auditors
• Preparation, negotiation and settlement of a £0.4m EOT claim to NR on behalf of SSL