The East West Railway Company (EWR Co) has appointed international technical and professional services firm, Jacobs, as its programme partner for the next three years to support the organisation through the next stage of its development. From engineering and operations to IT support and delivery, Jacobs will work collaboratively with EWR Co’s existing team providing additional, flexible capability as the company continues to develop plans for the new railway.
Commenting, Ian Parker, Programme Delivery Director at EWR Co said: “A project of the complexity and size of East West Rail requires a wide range of different types of resource as it develops. In this critical, yet early stage of our development as a business, it is vital that we have access to people who are at the top of their field across various areas of our business on a flexible basis. Jacobs will support us as we work towards creating a permanent workforce and build relationships with Enterprise partners into the future. A key aspect of our decision was the commitment that Jacobs has made for Social Value Outcomes along the route. As well as Jacobs’ internationally renowned reputation for world-class technical skills, they also have a proven track record in delivering strong, impactful social value – and are passionate about protecting the environment and promoting social mobility. These values are something that are at the core of what we want to achieve at EWR Co, delivering real difference for the communities along the route that we will serve.”
Donald Morrison, Jacobs People & Places Solutions Senior Vice President Europe and Digital Strategies added: “We are delighted to be working with EWR Co. Their commitment to be a force for industry change and for the people and communities it will serve aligns with the Jacobs’ vision for creating a more connected and sustainable world. Jacobs has committed to work with social enterprise partnerships, voluntary and community sector organizations, and small and medium‐sized enterprises to deliver a program of social value including promoting the social mobility of young people and vulnerable adults in the region. An investment in sustainability innovation reflects Jacobs’ passion for protecting the environment and supporting better social outcomes.
Programme elements embrace upskilling, mentoring and support across areas such as business and finance planning, branding and leadership coaching, as well as guidance and tools – including Jacobs’ One Million Lives free online mental health check-in tool designed to enhance users' understanding of their current state of mind and provide proactive strategies for personal mental health development.
EWR Co recently held a second non-statutory public consultation to gather people’s views on developing plans for the railway. The company started the process of seeking new long-term partners in September 2020, inviting Expressions of Interest from experts in land and property, engineering and environmental, commercial management, and management and technical services.
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