FOLLOW RIA
Andrew Stephenson, Minister of State (Department for Transport) visited AUS Ltd to witness their environmentally friendly solution to level crossing fatalities. The Minister, joined by an assembly of MPs and local councillors such as MP Mark Eastwood of Dewsbury, Mirfield, Denby Dale and Kirkburton, visited AUS to see first-hand the innovation that has been developed. The priority of the visit was for Mr Stephenson to witness AUS’ work with Fiber Reinforced Polymers (FRP). The specific product Mr Stephenson saw was AUS’ innovative FRP footbridge to run over level crossings. The bridge nullifies the need for pedestrians to walk across level crossings that cause threat to public lives. Not only does the bridge provide public safety from trains, it also has a can support the Government’s goals for Net Zero by 2050. The material in the bridge is approximately 60% lighter and less dense than traditional materials such as steel, whilst not compromising strength and integrity. This culminates in less Co2 emissions being emitted in production, transport, and installation. Additionally, the material is produced in state-of-the-art facilities in an ‘Energy-Plus’ rated factory, and also has very few maintenance requirements. Mr Stephenson stated: “Innovative suppliers such as AUS are using their considerable expertise to help engineer state of the art rail infrastructure across the UK’s rail network, such as their work with fiber reinforced polymers. As well as playing a key role supporting local growth and employment opportunities, they are dedicated to nurturing talent and providing opportunity through the focus they place on apprenticeships. Companies such as AUS are key to driving our rail future and my recent visit to their Huddersfield offices underlined their passion in this sector, aligning with the Government's rail ambitions.”. In addition, Richard Binks, Head of Major Project and Infrastructure at North Yorkshire County Council said: “AUS Ltd ably demonstrated their expertise, commitment and product quality, and presented a very clearly talented team. The machined steel and GRP structures quality was very impressive indeed”.