Client:
Kier Construction
Location:
Oxford Train Station
Product:
This initiative aims to significantly improve both the facilities and capacity of the station. Oxford station is a crucial interchange for the historic city and wider county and a vital component of the country’s freight network. The project’s completion is set to bring substantial economic and social benefits to the region.
Robert Cook, Policy Director of the Railway Industry Association (RIA), stated,
“It is a great success story to see Kier engaged to deliver such a transformative project that is set to bring significant economic and social benefits.
We also welcome the opportunities this offers the wider rail supply chain working on the project – particularly SMEs who will also benefit.”
Project Phases
The initial phase of the project focuses on significant enhancements to Botley Road, including replacing the existing railway bridge to accommodate double-decker buses and adding new 4-meter-wide cycle paths and footways. The subsequent phase involves constructing a new platform and various station improvements, such as an overhead canopy for platforms 4 and 5, a new western station entrance, a ticket office, waiting room, toilets, café, shops, and a subway connecting the western entrance to the new platform.
Innovative Lighting Solutions by Ventavolt
To support the construction activities on phase 2 Works for carriage sidings at Roger Dudman Way and ensure efficient, sustainable, and safe operations, Kier Infrastructure collaborated with VentaVolt, a sister company of GreenBlue Urban, to deploy four Solar Wind Street Lights (XM6G Lighting Modules).
Benefits of the ReLuminate XM6G Lighting Modules
These sophisticated lights utilise a combination of wind and solar power, ensuring consistent lighting throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions. They do not require traditional groundwork for installation, significantly reducing laboir and installation costs. The lights can be easily relocated with a forklift or similar equipment, providing speed and agility as project needs change. Once installed, they require no manual intervention, increasing operational efficiency. Additionally, the units are self-cleaning, maximising sustainability, durability, and reducing maintenance costs. Each light provides a 500m² spread, offering superior coverage compared to traditional solutions. The system also requires about 20% fewer columns, reducing both the visual impact and the number of light sources needed, leading to further cost savings.
These lights have zero negative environmental impact and reduce reliance on the National Grid, supporting sustainability goals. Being off grid, they mitigate the risk of power outages affecting emergency lighting, enhancing safety management during critical situations. The easy relocation and adjustable lighting heads help control light coverage to avoid disturbing local habitats, contributing to biodiversity. Wildlife-friendly light colour options minimise ecological effects, while low glare and light spill reduce the visual impact of artificial light, preventing potential complaints from the community.
Stakeholder Collaboration
Given the busy city-centre location and live transport interchange setting, Kier Group have successfully worked closely with Network Rail, Oxford City Council, local businesses, and residents to minimise disruption. This collaboration ensures that the project progresses smoothly while maintaining the high standards expected by all stakeholders involved.
The Oxford station transformation project, bolstered by innovative solutions from VentaVolt, exemplifies how modern infrastructure projects can combine sustainability, cost-efficiency, and safety.
The deployment of Solar Wind Street Lights not only enhances operational efficiency but also aligns with broader environmental and social goals, ensuring a brighter future for Oxford and its residents.
