DEMONSTRATION ENVIRONMENT
The Ironbridge story
In 2020, we agreed on the need for a purpose-built environment to launch Revolution Very Light Rail (RVLR). The Ironbridge site was ideally suited to achieving our vision of showcasing RVLR in a typical line reopening context.
The speed and cost-effectiveness of establishing the Ironbridge demonstration site was made possible by combined effort from TDI and Eversholt Rail, working together with industry partners. We completed the facility in less than six months, illustrating the rapid deployment that a very light rail solution can achieve compared with heavy rail. The total cost to establish the demonstration site was less than £400k. This included a new platform, maintenance facility and a marketing suite that is readily adaptable to a station role.
Ironbridge has been a real success story for RVLR. We continue to use the facility to promote RVLR and develop commercial interest as well as testing key technologies that could form part of future RVLR vehicle and infrastructure requirements.
Rapid Deployment
February
Track inspection completed
March
Marketing and maintenance buildings ordered
June
Platform and buildings construction completed
August
Safety Management System implemented
September
Ironbridge site launched with Ministerial visit
October
Stakeholder demonstrations commenced
all year
Further stakeholder demonstrations
Track
Track
Following the planning application and site design work during the second half of 2020, track inspection took place in February 2021 and remedial works were completed in August 2021.
Following the planning application and site design work during the second half of 2020, track inspection took place in February 2021 and remedial works were completed in August 2021.
Platform
Platform
The galvanised steel platform was completed in June 2021. This all-weather structure is adjustable and suitable for permanent use. It can also be used for temporary event-based passenger traffic.
The galvanised steel platform was completed in June 2021. This all-weather structure is adjustable and suitable for permanent use. It can also be used for temporary event-based passenger traffic.
Maintenance Building
Maintenance Building
The building was completed in June 2021, accommodating RVLR when it is not in operation and providing an on-site maintenance facility for the vehicle.
The building was completed in June 2021, accommodating RVLR when it is not in operation and providing an on-site maintenance facility for the vehicle.
Marketing Suite
Marketing Suite
The marketing suite is used to host RVLR stakeholder events. The building was completed in June 2021 and has been in regular use since then. It could be adapted to other roles such as a station building.
The marketing suite is used to host RVLR stakeholder events. The building was completed in June 2021 and has been in regular use since then. It could be adapted to other roles such as a station building.
400+
Stakeholder visitors
