🇫🇷 Modernisation of the Niort-Saintes line

A 100% Multiexpertise consortium, led by TSO (lead contractor), SAGES RAIL, FVF, Guintoli, EHTP, NGE GENIE CIVIL, and NGE FONDATIONS, has won a new project to revitalise local rail lines: the modernisation of the Niort-Saintes line.
This project has several long-term goals: to develop the region’s TER service, encourage the circulation of regional freight trains, offer a tailored service, and improve punctuality while ensuring passenger safety.

The scope of the works includes rehabilitation of retaining walls and structures, hydraulic works, track renewal, implementation of electrical and telecom signalling diversions, installation of tancarville structures, and railway safety operations.

NGE teams were also mobilised for a preliminary contract to develop the Saintes work base, with OLICHON (lead contractor) and Guintoli involved.
As part of this work, the track layout was simplified to facilitate the parking of heavy trains that will be used for the modernisation project.

The Niort-Saintes connection is part of the rail network in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. Due to the ageing of the line, train speeds are currently limited. After the works are completed, trains will once again be able to travel at a nominal speed of 100 km/h, which will reduce travel time and expand the service offering.

CSR & INNOVATION

• Screening of the existing ballast allowing its sorting and direct reuse on the tracks
  • 136,000 tonnes of recycled ballast