Project Description

Delatim is delivering a major £9.0 million transmission network modernisation programme for
Docklands Light Railway (DLR), replacing the legacy estate-wide communications backbone with a
resilient, carrier-grade Nokia IP/MPLS architecture.

The upgraded transmission network provides a high-capacity, deterministic communications
platform supporting critical voice, video and operational data services between stations, depots,
substations and operational control facilities.
Delatim is delivering the programme in close collaboration with our valued supply chain partner,
Hitachi Rail, combining Delatim’s expertise in rail communications infrastructure, design integration
and delivery assurance with Hitachi Rail’s specialist knowledge of Nokia IP/MPLS transmission
technologies. This collaborative approach supports the delivery of a fully integrated, resilient and
future-ready communications network.

The programme forms a core element of DLR’s long-term digital infrastructure strategy, replacing
ageing transmission systems with a scalable, future-proof IP/MPLS solution capable of supporting
emerging operational technologies, enhanced security requirements and increased data throughput.

As Principal Contractor and Principal Designer, Delatim is responsible for the detailed engineering
design, structured cabling works, equipment installation, systems integration, testing,
commissioning and phased migration of all operational services, while maintaining uninterrupted
railway operations throughout the programme.

Delivering across a live railway presents significant engineering, logistical and assurance challenges.
All works are meticulously planned and coordinated with Docklands Light Railway and KeolisAmey
Docklands (KAD) to ensure the continuous availability of safety-critical systems, strict compliance
with operational constraints and minimal passenger disruption.

Scope of Works

The programme encompasses the end-to-end design, deployment and commissioning of a new
transmission network across the DLR estate, including:

• Engineering design of a resilient Nokia IP/MPLS transmission network, including MPLS Layer 2 and Layer 3 VPN segmentation and protected routing.

• Replacement of legacy SDH/TDM transmission equipment with modern IP/MPLS platforms, including Nokia 7750 SR and 7250 IXR series equipment.

• Installation of new communications equipment across stations, depots, substations and operational control facilities.

• Deployment of new fibre-optic and Cat6A structured cabling infrastructure.

• Equipment room upgrades, rack installations and associated building services.

• Network architecture development, systems integration and resilience modelling.

• Power distribution, containment installation and associated electrical engineering works.

• Full testing, commissioning and controlled migration of operational services.

• Asset verification, configuration management and structured labelling.

• Production of BIM-compliant asset information, digital records and as-built documentation.

• Training of operational and maintenance personnel.

• Progressive migration and handover of completed assets into operational service.