Northern Powerhouse Rail: Cost Assurance and Strategic Advice byKingsmead Consultants

KingsmeadConsultants are proud to be at the forefront of delivering specialist costestimating, cost verification, and strategic cost advice to the NorthernPowerhouse Rail (NPR) project in Manchester. Engaged exclusively by NetworkRail and Northern Powerhouse Rail, we are tasked with providing vital costplanning services, cost assurance, and validation for the tranche of workscommissioned by Transport for the North.

The Northern Powerhouse Rail Project Overview

NorthernPowerhouse Rail is a transformative infrastructure initiative aimed atimproving connectivity across the North of England. With a proposed network ofnew and upgraded rail lines, NPR seeks to deliver faster and more frequentservices between key cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield,Newcastle, and Hull. The vision is to enable economic growth, reduce journeytimes, and enhance capacity for both passengers and freight.

ProposedRoutes and Indicative Values:

1. Liverpool to Manchester (via Warrington): Approx. £3.5 billion.

2. Manchester to Leeds (via Bradford): Approx. £4.2 billion.

3. Manchester to Sheffield: Approx. £1.8 billion.

4. Leeds to Hull: Approx. £2.1 billion.

5. Newcastle to Leeds (via Durham): Approx. £3.0 billion.

6. York to Leeds: Approx. £1.1 billion.

These routes formthe backbone of the NPR project, ensuring seamless connections across the Northand unlocking untapped potential in the region.

Kingsmead Consultants’ Role and Expertise

Our involvementin the NPR project underscores our reputation as industry leaders in costplanning and assurance. Below are the key roles Kingsmead Consultants will befulfilling on the project:

1. Independent Cost Assurance and Validation:

   
   

   • Inspecting and scrutinizing cost plans and cost plan reports submitted by consultancies.

   • Identifying inconsistencies, omissions, or inaccuracies in submitted data to safeguard financial integrity.

2. Benchmarking Rates and Prices:

   
   

   • Enumeration and assessment of benchmark rates to ensure competitive and realistic pricing.

   • Providing technical support and guidance on industry-standard rates.

3. Peer Reviews:

   
   

   • Conducting independent peer reviews of project feasibility studies and cost plan proposals.

   • Offering objective insights to enhance the robustness of cost strategies.

4. Strategic Cost Advice:

   
   

   • Reporting on initiatives for improving cost efficiencies across the project.

   • Delivering actionable recommendations to optimize value without compromising quality.

Benefits of Engaging Kingsmead Consultants

1. Accuracy and Transparency: Our rigorous cost assurance processes eliminate discrepancies and provide stakeholders with confidence in the financial viability of the project.

2. Efficiency Improvements: By identifying cost-saving opportunities and streamlining processes, we ensure the project remains on budget and schedule.

3. Expert Guidance: With decades of industry experience, our cost experts offer unparalleled technical support and strategic advice.

4. Risk Mitigation: Our independent peer reviews and benchmark assessments significantly reduce the risk of budget overruns and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Delivering Value to the Northern Powerhouse Rail Project

Through ourcollaboration with Network Rail and Transport for the North, KingsmeadConsultants are delivering solutions that go beyond traditional costconsultancy. We are enabling smarter decision-making, enhancing projectoutcomes, and contributing to the broader vision of connecting the Norththrough world-class infrastructure.

For moreinformation on how Kingsmead Consultants can assist with your project, contactus today. Together, we’ll ensure your development achieves its full potential,on time and on budget.