LAGAN TO YORKGATE TRACK RENEWAL RAIL SURVEY
2025
Background
The Lagan to Yorkgate Track Renewal Project was undertaken by Arup on behalf of Northern Ireland Railways, with Malcolm Hughes Land Surveyors appointed as the survey consultant. As part of the wider Belfast Transport Hub project, which aims to transform Belfast’s transport network, this work focused on upgrading critical infrastructure to meet future transportation demands. The project aimed to support track renewal with precise and detailed survey data for effective planning and execution, ensuring the seamless integration of modern rail systems to enhance operational efficiency and support the region’s growing transport needs. Read more on the Translink renewal project here.
Overview
The project involved a comprehensive track and topographic survey covering the area from Lagan Junction to Yorkgate Station. The focus was on:
- Accurately surveying Permanent Way (P-Way) geometry and rail features.
- Collecting platform and structure gauging data at Yorkgate Station and the Dargan Bridge.
The deliverables included:
- Digital topographic data
- Platform and structure gauging profiles and reports
- The survey area extended across the entire rail site, from Lagan Junction to Yorkgate Station.
Tools + Tech used
- GNSS Receivers: Trimble R10.
- Total Station: Trimble S8 1”.
- Laser Scanner: Trimble TX10.
- IMU: Integrated within the Trimble GEDO IMS-Scan System.
- Platform Gauge: Calibrated Platform Gauge (Bance & Co Ltd).
- Digital Level: Leica LS15.
Challenges
The project faced several obstacles:
- Restricted Clearance: Limited space and buried services in the down cess affected survey control placement.
- Safety Concerns: Ongoing renewal and infrastructure work within the survey extents.
- Night and Day Shifts: Operating under varying weather conditions presented logistical and safety challenges.
Solutions Devised
Survey Control & PGMs:
- A robust control network of permanent ground markers. Ground Markers (PGMs) were installed with strategic planning to account for site constraints like limited clearance and buried services.
GNSS Network:
- A primary and secondary GNSS control network tied to the Irish National Grid was established using dual-frequency GNSS receivers.
Precise Techniques:
- Traverse Network: Observed using forced centering methods and multiple rounds of angles.
- Double Levelling: Ensured vertical accuracies through rigorous levelling.
- Service Clearance: Cable avoidance tools used to prevent service strikes when installing control.
- A platform gauge was used for precise platform gauging.
Advanced Technology for Detail and Gauging:
- The Trimble GEDO IMS-Scan System, equipped with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and laser scanner, was employed.
Through meticulous planning, collaboration, and cutting-edge technology, Malcolm Hughes successfully completed the survey in a demanding environment. The project provided a precise P-Way and infrastructure survey, enabling Arup and Northern Ireland Railways to proceed confidently with the Lagan to Yorkgate Track Renewal.
The results highlight Malcolm Hughes’s expertise in overcoming logistical and technical obstacles to deliver accurate, high-quality data under challenging conditions and we are pleased to announce that once again we have successfully passed the RISQS audit. This accreditation demonstrates our teams’ capability and commitment to excellence within the rail sector, providing our clients with the confidence that we can and will deliver effectively and safely.