Old Oak Common rail systems will integrate the HS2 and Great Western railway stations, aiming to enhance urban connectivity and support sustainable, low-carbon transport. It will be delivered by the South Rail Systems Alliance (SRSA), a collaboration between Network Rail, Colas, and AECOM. AECOM is the lead designer and faces complex design and urban constraints working on a live operational corridor, compounded by tight deadlines, strict environmental standards, and coordinating multiple disciplines. Therefore, AECOM needed a comprehensive, integrated digital twin solution.

Leveraging Bentley applications, AECOM established a digital twin, facilitating accurate track modeling, minimal material waste, and real-time multidiscipline collaboration, as well as tracking of progress and carbon metrics. While the project is still under development, AECOM has identified aspirational efficiencies expected to be achieved using Bentley’s integrated digital technologies, reducing design time by 30% and design clashes by 40%, saving significant costs. By minimizing rework and optimizing material usage, SRSA estimates a 20% reduction in carbon emissions and energy consumption.