Lanes Group shortlisted for two international rail awards

Lanes Group has been named as a finalist in two categories for the Global Light Rail Awards 2015 for its development of aerial drone surveys.

The national drainage and maintenance specialist has been shortlisted for Technical Innovation (Infrastructure) and Supplier of the Year (Over EUR10m) in the prestigious awards.

The Global Light Rail Awards, now in their 10th year, recognise excellence in the management of light railways, including urban transit systems.

Lanes Rail Division submitted evidence about how its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) survey service for London Underground is delivering impressive results.

It was able to demonstrate that the service, developed in partnership with UAV company Unmanned Aerial Technology, is delivering significant tangible benefits.

These include the opportunity to gather richer and more accurate digital data about structure conditions, allowing engineers to plan maintenance or development programmes more effectively.

Use of UAV technology also allows surveys to be carried out more safely, with fewer resources, and with less potential impact on London Underground’s operations.

Matthew Todd, Commercial Director of Lanes Rail Division, said: “We are delighted that the Global Light Rail Awards has recognised the significant contribution that innovative maintenance services make to rail operations.

“UAV survey technology like this will make maintenance programmes more effective and cost-efficient, which will help rail operators develop better services for the travelling public.”

Lanes Rail Division’s professional engineering services team has carried out drone surveys on the Neasden lifting shed in West London, and Amersham Station, in Buckinghamshire.

It is now exploring how UAV drones can be used to survey other structures, such as drainage systems.

The Global Light Rail Awards are run by Tramways and Urban Transit Magazine, and attract submissions from companies across the world.

This year’s winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on 7 October.

Lanes Rail Division operates a range of drainage and structure maintenance contracts for London Underground, and provides drainage services for Network Rail contractors.

It also offers professional civil and structural engineering consultancy services.

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