
Delivering Value for a Landmark Transport Project in Liverpool
Kingsmead Consultants were proud to play a pivotal role in the construction of the new Maghull Railway Station in Liverpool. Engaged by Network Rail, our team provided expert value engineering and cost advice to Network Rail and the end client, Merseytravel. This £15 million scheme aimed to enhance connectivity and support the local community by delivering a state-of-the-art railway station while maintaining a strict budget.
Scope of the Project
The new Maghull station features a wide range of amenities to serve passengers and the community, including:
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Staffed station building with a ticket office and passenger toilet.
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Passenger waiting facilities on both platforms.
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Step-free access with lifts and a bridge to connect platforms and the station building.
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A 156-space car park, including blue badge and motorcycle parking facilities, along with cycle storage.
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Pedestrian and cycle routes from School Lane and Park Lane to the station, plus bus stops on School Lane.
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Provision for future electric vehicle charging points.
The station is part of a collaborative effort funded by the Government’s Local Growth Fund(LGF), Merseytravel, and the Homes and Communities Association, which previously owned the site.
Key Challenges and Solutions
One of the major challenges faced during the project was meeting the stringent budget constraints. The direct award framework contractor, Buckingham Group, struggled to align the design and client requirements with the available funding. This is where Kingsmead Consultants made a significant impact, working closely with all stakeholders to optimize the design and reduce costs without compromising on quality.
Value Engineering Strategies
Our value engineering approach included:
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Design Rationalization:
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Simplifying architectural elements without detracting from functionality or aesthetic appeal.
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Reducing over-specification in non-critical areas, such as internal finishes and external landscaping.
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Material Optimization:
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Reassessing material choices to identify cost-effective alternatives that maintained durability and performance.
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Utilizing modular components where possible to reduce on-site labor costs and construction time.
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Collaboration with Stakeholders:
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Hosting multiple workshops and meetings with Merseytravel at their Mann Island headquarters in Liverpool city center to ensure alignment on priorities.
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Engaging with contractors and suppliers early to identify cost-saving opportunities and streamline procurement processes.
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Operational Efficiency:
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Designing layouts that minimized long-term maintenance costs, such as step-free access solutions and efficient lighting systems.
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Planning the car park and pedestrian routes to maximize utility while reducing construction complexity.
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Outcome
Thanks to the expertise and dedication of Kingsmead Consultants, the Maghull Railway Station project successfully achieved its objectives. The station provides a modern, accessible transport hub that serves the needs of passengers while respecting the allocated budget. By applying strategic value engineering and expert cost management, we ensured that essential amenities were delivered without compromise, creating a station that the community can take pride in.
Why Choose Kingsmead Consultants for Your Project?
Our work on the Maghull Railway Station is just one example of how Kingsmead Consultants deliver exceptional results for complex infrastructure projects. With our tailored approach to value engineering, cost verification, and strategic advice, we help clients achieve their vision while staying on budget. Whether you’re planning a new build, refurbishment, or infrastructure upgrade, our team has the expertise to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to find out how Kingsmead Consultants can add value to your next project.
