On Wednesday 4 June 2025, a dedicated team of professionals achieved a railway industry first, installing the first offsite constructed lift at the Network Rail Test Track in Melton Mowbray.
A product of innovation and collaboration between Laing O’Rourke and KONE, the lift went from the trailer bed of the delivery vehicle to being installed fully upright taking a mere 26 minutes.
By shifting construction offsite, installation time is reduced from months to days —improving safety, reducing disruption, and maintaining station operations. This approach delivers faster, higher-quality access for passengers and supports the goals of the Network Rail Access for All programme.
Laing O’Rourke and KONE have a long history of collaborating to transform the approach to elevator installation. This solution is a clear demonstration of transformation through modern methods of construction.
With both the frame and lift equipment verified to rail sector design criteria this solution also allows for customisation through a wide choice of finishes, offering the feeling of a bespoke product whilst benefiting from the standardisation and certainty of the base components.
The modular lift is designed for use with multiple footbridges, containing a KONE Monospace 700 lift, the tower stands at 10.678mtrs above ground level. The construction, inclusive of all off-site activity totalled 86 days, a potential saving of up to 32 weeks when compared traditional in-situ installation which would be entirely delivered on site.
The installation enables this solution to be demonstrated to the rail industry over the coming months.
Sam Ward, Operations Leader, from Laing O’Rourke said: “At Laing O’Rourke our purpose is to push the boundaries of what’s possible in service of humanity which strongly aligns to the purpose of the Access for All programme, and we are proud to have been a part of this project using our innovative design for manufacture and assembly approach, our unique offsite construction knowledge to deliver a solution that will provide tangible benefits to commuters across the country.”
Andrew Todd, board director at KONE added: “KONE MonoSpace-700 lifts are adaptable to meet varying market segment’s needs, and full accessibility requirements, meeting the AFA programme requisites.”
“The lifts are specifically designed to ensure maximum space efficiency, which in turn provides the perfect solution to be used in offsite construction where full installation can take place prior to delivery. We are delighted to have been part of this collaboration and to be playing our part in making the railway a more accessible environment for all users.”
Image credit: Laing O’Rourke
