Crossrail Tottenham Court Road

Project overview

As part of the Crossrail project at Tottenham Court Road Station, Laing O’Rourke was responsible for the complete construction and internal fit-out of the underground station infrastructure. This included the delivery of twin running tunnels, large underground platform caverns, and the 250-metre-long Elizabeth Line platforms. Their scope covered reinforced concrete structures, platform screen doors, and all architectural finishes such as cladding, flooring, and lighting. They also constructed emergency access routes and integrated ventilation shafts and smoke extraction systems, ensuring compliance with strict fire safety and operational standards.

In addition, Laing O’Rourke delivered all mechanical, electrical, and communication systems within the station. This included power distribution, drainage, fire detection and suppression systems, and full installation of signalling and communication networks. The station was equipped with CCTV, PA systems, help points, and digital passenger information displays, all integrated with Crossrail’s central control. The fit-out also featured high-spec cladding, wayfinding signage, and public art elements, resulting in a modern, fully operational transport hub that connects seamlessly with the existing London Underground network.

Duties and Responsibilities

As a Site Engineer, my role was critical to the successful construction of the 250-metre-long Elizabeth Line platforms at Tottenham Court Road. I was responsible for overseeing structural and architectural elements, coordinating with trades, and maintaining strict quality and safety standards. My technical oversight helped ensure the precise construction of reinforced concrete base slabs and edge walls, the accurate installation of platform screen doors, and the delivery of high-quality finishes in alignment with Crossrail's design vision.

📐 Setting Out for Platform Structures:

Accurately set out levels and alignments for base slabs and platform edge walls, ensuring formwork and reinforcement conformed to design specifications—minimizing rework and structural issues.

🛠️ Supervision of Platform Screen Door (PSD) Installations:

Coordinated with specialist subcontractors and verified setting-out tolerances for PSDs, ensuring alignment with train door interface requirements for safe and efficient operation.

🧱 Architectural Finishes Oversight:

Monitored installation of tiled wall cladding, lighting, and flooring systems; ensured consistent quality and compliance with Crossrail’s uniform station aesthetic.

📋 Quality Assurance and ITP Compliance:

Inspected reinforcement, formwork, screeds, and architectural finishes at each stage, ensuring quality benchmarks were met and ITPs were signed off in a timely manner.

🧩 Cross-Trade Coordination:

Managed daily interface between structural, MEP, and architectural teams working in confined platform areas—resolving clashes and maintaining efficient workflow.

🗂️ As-Built Documentation and Handover:

Maintained accurate redline drawings and assisted in compiling platform-related documentation, supporting a smooth T-12 handover and integration with Crossrail’s operational systems.

🧯 Health & Safety Leadership:

Enforced safety procedures in a high-risk, confined environment—especially around PSD installation and MEP works—supporting a safe working culture throughout platform delivery.