CTRL Phase 1 – Part 2: Collaboration in Action

At Victa Railfreight, we believe that great projects are built on strong partnerships—and Beechbrook Farm for CTRL Phase 1, was a perfect example.

Working alongside Freightliner Heavy Haul, EWS (now DB Cargo), GB Railfreight, and on-track machine operators, we co-ordinated and delivered a safe and efficient operation.

A view across Beechbrook Farm Yard which had some 40km of track and about 63 point ends with Freightliner loco pictured in the yard.

Our role included:

✅ Employing Work Site Safety Supervisors to manage operations

✅ Providing a Trace Inspector for compliance and support

✅ Hiring and maintaining locomotives

✅ Supplying train crews and even drafting in two of the first GBRf Class 66 locomotives

As well as operating the yard, Victa worked alongside Amec-Spie providing Logistics Solutions to maximise flexibility and minimise costs. The siz locos pictured were hired by Victa to service overhead line construction trains.

This collaboration didn’t just complete a project—it shaped careers and introduced Freightliner Heavy Haul to a major operational opportunity.

Another view across the yard, EWS (now DB Cargo), Freightliner, GB Railfreight and Victa Railfreight all contributed resources to successfully deliver the operation.

The Control Tower at Beechbrook Farm. Yardmaster Chris Barrow (on the right) is now our National Operations Manager!

As the project wrapped up, operations moved from Beechbrook Farm to Lenham, where two loops supported the final stages.

Victa provided a "turnkey solution" to the Overhead Line train requirement when original plans fell through. ​As well as hiring (and maintaining) the locos, Victa provide the train crews for these trains and drafted in two of the first GBRf Class 66's and drivers to support the operation​​.

EWS, Freightliner, GB Railfreight, and Victa Railfreight all contributed resources to make this happen. True collaboration at its best!

Below are some images from the later stages of Phase 1.

Beechbrook Farm wasn’t just about scale—it was about synergy. Victa worked alongside Amec-Spie and other partners to deliver logistics solutions that kept the project moving. Our ability to integrate seamlessly into complex construction environments proved the value of collaboration and adaptability. 

This project marked a turning point for Victa Railfreight, showcasing our capability to lead, support, and innovate within high-stakes rail operations. A role we still fulfil for contracts today.

#Victaat30 #railfreight #collaboration #railindustry #victarailfreight #logistics #infrastructure