Nexus and Network Rail have recently implemented a joint \u201cOperational Interface Management Methodology\u201d (OIMM) as part of their continued close working relationship. The document came out of the RAIB investigation into the Sandilands accident on London Trams which recommended that there were improved processes for defining and managing operational and maintenance boundaries.<\/p>\n
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The OIMM was formally implemented in March 2026 and now gives a clearly defined single point of reference for managing access at interfaces between Nexus and Network Rail infrastructure. The Tyne and Metro travels on Network Rail infrastructure on the Sunderland extension and so this document will help both organisations support activities such as isolation access.<\/p>\n
Alex Dodds, Project Operations Interface Specialist at Network Rail, said: \u201cWe have come an incredibly long way in the last 5 years in developing operational and maintenance interfaces with our light rail stakeholders. The output is a testament to the efforts of those involved and has promoted the concept for further development locally, as well as for implementation on other interfaces across the region. I look forward to working with colleagues across both heavy and light rail disciplines, to develop additional collaborative processes, based on the Nexus interface template.\u201d<\/p>\n
The new process will give Nexus greater flexibility when accessing infrastructure at its three boundaries with Network Rail. This enables teams to inspect and maintain interfacing infrastructure assets on a regular cycle, rather than relying on irregular Network Rail possession access windows.<\/p>\n
For Network Rail they will now have formal visibility of interfacing Nexus work, helping teams plan internal work banks and identify potential clashes before they arise. They will also have reciprocal access to interfacing Nexus infrastructure.<\/p>\n
Simon Coulthard, Head of Light Rail at Network Rail and a member of the UKTram Board, said: \u201cThis is a great example of what can be achieved when light rail and Network Rail work closely together to address shared challenges. It has taken considerable work and collaboration to reach this point, and I\u2019d like to congratulate everyone at Nexus and Network Rail who has helped develop and implement this new approach.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Nexus and Network Rail have recently implemented a joint \u201cOperational Interface Management Methodology\u201d (OIMM) as part of their continued close working relationship. The document came out of the RAIB investigation into the Sandilands accident on London Trams which recommended that … Continue reading