AESTHETIC OVERHEAD LINE STRUCTURES

International Design Ideas Competition


Invitation


This RIBA Competition invites architects, engineers and designers worldwide to propose new ideas to improve the design of gantry and cantilever structures which form an essential component of the electrification programme across the UK rail network and assist with electrification of the network through listed or otherwise protected areas.


An Introduction to SBRI


SBRI is a mechanism which enables public sector bodies to connect with innovative ideas and technology businesses to provide innovative solutions to specific Public Sector challenges and needs.

The Public sector is able to find innovative solutions by reaching out to organisations from different sectors including small and emerging businesses. New technical solutions are created through accelerated technology development, whilst risk is reduced through a phased development programme. SBRI also provides applicants with a transparent competitive and a reliable source of early-stage funding.

SBRI competitions are open to all organisations that can demonstrate a route to market for their solution. The SBRI scheme is particularly suited to small and medium-sized business, as the contracts are of relatively small value and operate on short timescales. Developments are 100% funded and focus on specific identified needs, increasing the chance of exploitation. Suppliers for each project will be selected by an open competition process and retain the intellectual property generated from the project, with certain rights of use retained by the contracting Authority. This is an excellent opportunity to establish an early customer for a new technology and to fund its development.


Summary

Funding Body


In association with RIBA, the Enabling Innovation Team (EIT) which forms part of the Future Railway Programme, HS2 Ltd and the Department for Transport (DfT) intend to identify Overhead Line Structure designs that will minimise their impact on the surrounding environment. The aim is to identify and demonstrate design solutions that:

  • are more visibly appealing to line side neighbours
  • have construction and installation costs close to that of existing structures
  • are relatively easy to install particularly in hard to access locations

In association with



 

Competition Contact


: 0113 203 1490
: riba.competitions@riba.org

The competition is being administered by RIBA Competitions, to whom any enquiries relating to the general conditions of this competition should be addressed.