Ground Control to help keep Britain’s railways safe, resilient, and sustainable

Working under Network Rail’s £300m EREC Structures Framework

Ground Control has been named one of three supply chain partners on Network Rail’s £300 million Eastern Region Examinations Contract (EREC) Structures Framework, supporting the ongoing safety, reliability, and sustainability of vital railway assets across the East of England.

This major appointment will see Ground Control’s specialist teams conduct detailed examinations of critical railway structures including viaducts, bridges, retaining walls, signal gantries, and culverts to ensure they remain safe, resilient, and fit for the future. The work will involve specialist techniques such as underwater inspections and rope access, helping Network Rail to make informed decisions that keep passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the network.

Delivering essential inspections, the framework will help drive wider public and economic benefits by keeping transport routes open, reducing disruption, and extending the life of key infrastructure. It supports local employment and skills development, and reflects both organisations shared commitment to safety, innovation, and environmental stewardship.

Ground Control’s recent investment in specialist firm, SAS Rope & Rail further strengthens its capability to deliver complex works in hard-to-reach environments using low-impact, sustainable methods that minimise carbon footprint and reduce reliance on heavy machinery.

Jason Knights, CEO, commented:

This is more than a contract win, it’s an opportunity to play a direct role in maintaining the safety and connectivity of Britain’s railways. Through this partnership, we’ll help Network Rail safeguard the structures that keep communities and economies connected, while demonstrating how responsible, sustainable engineering can deliver real public value.

Austin Brown, Divisional Director for Infrastructure, added:

We’re incredibly proud to contribute to this important framework. It reflects the exceptional expertise, collaboration, and safety-first culture shared across our teams and our new colleagues at SAS Rope & Rail. This recognition not only reinforces the trust Network Rail has placed in us but also cements Ground Control’s position at the forefront of structural asset examination and solutions-driven infrastructure management. We’re excited to get started and deliver outstanding results together.

The EREC Structures Framework begins on 1 April 2026, running for an initial five-year term with up to three one-year extensions.

For Press Enquiries and Media requests, please contact press.enquiries@ground-control.co.uk