Case study:
MASS Barrier Temporary System Birmingham New Street Station

The challenge: a below-ground station with limited access

Working with contractors and project managers at Birmingham New Street Station, a bespoke MASS barrier system was designed and fabricated, enabling the station regeneration – a major construction project – to commence safely. Birmingham New Street Station is based beneath ground and has very limited road access. This, combined with protection for the workforce, trains and pedestrians, were all considerations when designing the system for the project.

The MASS barrier temporary system with Screenguard panels and gated access

The solution: MASS barrier with Screenguard panels

MASS features a steel base and fire retardant properties, providing an extremely sturdy structure requiring non-permanent fixings. The station design required the MASS structure to be placed along the edge of the platform incorporating Screenguard top panels. Comprehensive protection was provided to stop the workforce falling down onto the track, and to shield the public and passing trains from any debris and welding arc light.

Access to the station and works was made by a night train into the platform, so a gated system was designed that could be opened once the train was in the station. This enabled new materials to be delivered straight onto site and made the removal of waste easy and simple. When closed and locked, the gates maintained a rigid protection screen.

A train arriving at New Street with the MASS temporary system running along the platform edge

By using an all white system, the project team were able to add informative advertising on the trackside, promoting the project works to the public on the facing platform.

The outcome

“Working with the contractors, we designed and fabricated a gated system which can be opened once the train is in the station. The system has provided many advantages to the project team and contractors. As well as all its safety aspects, MASS and Screenguard hides the works progress, allowing Birmingham New Street Station to maintain a clean, safe and welcoming experience to the public.”

Marvin Gayle – MASS Sales Engineer

MASS kept the works hidden and the platform safe for passengers