Northfields Rail Depot, London, UK

Project Overview

Northfields Depot is a critical London Underground facility, supporting operations on the Piccadilly Line since 1906. As part of the modernisation programme, the depot sidings were expanded, with works including new siding roads, bespoke walking routes, and upgraded driver access infrastructure.

Dura Composites supplied custom-fabricated GRP Driver Access Platforms and walkways, built using d² Dura Profile and d² Dura Grating. Lightweight, corrosion-resistant and non-conductive, the GRP systems provided a safer and more sustainable alternative to steel, supporting depot readiness for TfL’s new rolling stock.

The site was rail-locked, requiring all deliveries to be made by engineering train. Careful planning and collaboration ensured the works were completed to programme without delays, incidents or accidents.

Driver Access Platforms (DAPs)

Fabricated using d² Dura Profile structural sections and d² Dura Grating, the GRP Driver Access Platforms (also known as Driver Hop Ups) provide safe, non-conductive access for driver changeovers and inspections. Delivered fully assembled for rapid installation within restricted possessions, the platforms eliminate the need for earth-bonding and reduce whole-life costs.

GRP Walkways and Handrailing

Seva Rail Services constructed walking routes with precast foundations and d² GRP Dura Grating, combined with GRP handrails for safe, durable access. This bespoke solution reduced concrete usage, cutting embodied carbon while delivering a long design life.

Tailored for Safety, Sustainability and Speed

The Northfields Depot project combined operational and sustainability challenges, all delivered in a live environment:

• Restricted, rail-locked site required meticulous planning of materials by engineering train
• GRP solutions reduced reliance on carbon-intensive concrete and steel
• Pre-fabricated elements enabled safe, fast installation within short access windows
• Long design life of GRP reduces maintenance costs and supports circular economy goals

Contributing to Greener Rail Infrastructure

The Piccadilly Line Upgrade is one of TfL’s most ambitious modernisation programmes, introducing 94 new Siemens trains with walk-through carriages, air-conditioning, and 20% lower energy consumption. The upgrades at Northfields Depot are critical to enabling this fleet, providing stabling, maintenance and access infrastructure that supports safer, faster and greener operations.

Dura Composites’ GRP systems helped reduce carbon emissions, improve safety, and futureproof the depot for decades of operation.

The Northfields Depot works are a vital step in preparing the Piccadilly line for the arrival of new trains. By delivering lightweight, non-conductive Driver Access Platforms and walkways, we enabled TfL and its delivery partners to meet demanding timescales safely, sustainably and without disruption. It’s a strong example of how modern composites can add real value to critical depot upgrades.

Richard Palmer

Head of Rail at Dura Composites

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