Keyline has launched a managed services solution to help contractors within the rail sector to reduce operational overheads, have better access to critical resources and materials and react better to customer requirements.

Contractors will now be able to take advantage of Keyline's network of 88 locations to create satellite depots with dedicated office, storage and yard space that will extend their own infrastructure, as well as support key contracts and projects.

Rail contractors using the solution will not only have access to critical products and materials round the clock on a single or multi-site basis, but also the ability to store specialist plant and vehicles to ensure they have the necessary resources in place for all planned and unplanned work. In addition, dedicated office space will be available to house remote teams with advanced IT and communications to provide integration with in-house systems and a seamless extension to any internal operation.

Richard Wade, rail sector manager at Keyline, said: "Contractors are increasingly under strict time pressures to minimise any disruption to the rail network.

“Our managed service offering will enable them to use our nationwide depot network, technical expertise and supply chain infrastructure to quickly and effectively expand their internal capabilities to boost efficiency, flexibility and responsiveness. This will support all planned possession work and unplanned incidents to avoid unnecessary delays and closures that could result in costly penalties and fines, or even loss of business."