SYSTRA celebrates 20 years in Dublin

SYSTRA celebrates 20 years in Dublin

Transport and engineering consultancy SYSTRA is celebrating 20 years since its Dublin office opened, during which time its specialists have been integral to many of Ireland’s vital connectivity projects.

SYSTRA in Ireland dates back to the late 1970s, and has been supporting the development of transport infrastructure in the country long before it opened a Dublin office. It was in October 2005 that SYSTRA opened its Ireland headquarters in Dublin, and those two decades have brought additional growth.

Now located at City Quay, Dublin, as well as in Lapp’s Quay, Cork, SYSTRA has around 70 colleagues in Ireland. They’re working across a range of transport and infrastructure projects, delivering for public and private clients at all stages of scheme lifecycles.

Notably, SYSTRA is supporting Ireland’s journey towards net zero through a range of transport projects, from active travel schemes to electric vehicle infrastructure. The team’s capability in energy and water schemes also allows SYSTRA to provide unique insight as key design partner in helping the country to deliver critical infrastructure.

Find out more about SYSTRA’s work in Ireland at: https://www.systra.com/ireland and to explore the latest vacancies visit: https://www.systra.com/ireland/job-offers/

Another DJV-designed HS2 viaduct successfully slides into place

The 230-metre-long east deck was moved into position over the M6 near Birmingham Airport at the end of September, with both carriageways re-opened to traffic ahead of schedule.

It was the second phase of a multi-phase operation that will see two parallel viaducts installed, and for the first time on this project in the West Midlands the team used a ‘fully restrained’ sliding technique.

This meant the viaduct could be launched over the M6 Junction 4 slip road on the Friday before the weekend closure, maintaining traffic on the carriageway below. This new approach was introduced in collaboration with National Highways, to reduce the time of the operation and further minimise the impact on road users.

The team moved the viaduct using a series of winches, known as strand jacks, at an average speed of 10 metres per hour. To reduce friction, the structure was slid across non-stick pads, using a material usually found on the surface of a household frying pan. The viaduct was guided by a number of rollers placed on the piers, which ensured the deck remained on course for the full duration of the operation. 

Rob Owen, Project Manager at SYSTRA, said: “Once again the design team is extremely proud to see their design brought to life as part of what is a complex and innovative launch phase.

“The commitment and collaborative approach demonstrated by the Mott MacDonald SYSTRA DJV and the wider Integrated Project Team is inspiring, and we look forward to seeing the final section of the east deck being completed later this year, followed by the west deck launches throughout next year.”

Each viaduct is formed of a hollow double-box structure made of weathering steel. The steel boasts a natural protective layer of oxidisation which gives it a characteristic ‘rusty’ appearance and reduces maintenance by eliminating the need for regular repainting. 

Four pairs of concrete piers support the viaducts with the tallest one measuring 9.9m in height. A 4.5m-high parapet will be installed on the side facing Chelmsley Wood to reduce noise and disturbance from passing trains. 

The viaduct was launched with 51 precast slabs already installed on top of the steel structure. This will further reduce the number of road closures in the future, to complete the viaduct deck works. 

Find out more about our work on HS2.

SYSTRA to support Ireland Climate Action Plan 2026

Transport consultancy SYSTRA has been appointed to support the delivery of the next iteration of Ireland’s Climate Action Plan (CAP). 

SYSTRA specialists, based out of Cork and Dublin as well as 11 offices in the UK, will be providing transport modelling services to inform CAP26 – the third annual update to the plan led by the Department of Transport (DoT) and supported by the National Transport Authority (NTA).

The services include reviewing base year and future year models, conducting feasibility reviews of CAP23/24 measures, identifying new measures and establishing scenarios, testing policy interventions, analysing and reporting on model outputs, and facilitating meetings and consultations. The modelling will inform the pathway to decarbonisation of the transport sector in Ireland, aligning with the five-year carbon budget ceilings.

The SYSTRA team brings extensive experience in transport modelling and appraisal, particularly with the NTA’s Regional Modelling System, and the development of tools like the Carbon Forecasting Tool, National and Regional specific Fleet Models and the Decarbonisation Playbook. They also have expertise in non-standard modelling approaches from projects such as the Greater Dublin Area Transport Emissions Strategy and Scheme.

Work is well underway and will continue to the end of the year.

Ian Byrne, Consultancy Business Director for Ireland at SYSTRA, said: “Achieving carbon reduction targets in Ireland’s transport sector is crucial not only for the environment but in supporting growth and development too.

“We are proud to be part of Ireland’s journey towards increased climate resilience, reduced emissions, and environmental enhancements that will benefit us all, and to further cement our position with the National Transport Authority and Department of Transport as the prime transport modelling advisors in Ireland.”

Find out more about SYSTRA’s data modelling services.

SYSTRA reinforces ED&I mission with Women in Transport partnership renewal

The arrangement empowers colleagues through networking and professional development opportunities in the transport sector, across all modes and disciplines.

Part of Women in Transport’s mission is to encourage and enable more women to enter and thrive within the transport sector, which aligns strongly with SYSTRA’s equality, diversity and inclusion (ED&I) goals.

SYSTRA is dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace where colleagues can be the best personal and professional versions of themselves.

Making positive steps towards increasing the representation of women in the business and closing the gender pay gap, is part of this commitment. It is crucial to better understand experiences through active engagement with women throughout the company and across the industry.

Clare Francis, Senior HR Business Partner and ED&I Lead at SYSTRA, comments on the partnership renewal:

“Improving the representation and inclusion of women within SYSTRA, and our industry more widely, is a key focus of our Everyone Onboard strategy. 

“We are excited to continue building on our relationship with Women in Transport and their member network in order to share best practice, learn from others and support wider reaching change.” 

SYSTRA also has its own internal ED&I colleague engagement group, Everyone Onboard, which has a dedicated pillar focused on supporting an inclusive workplace for colleagues of all genders. 

Abi Lindsay, Senior Consultant (Development Planning) and Gender ED&I Lead for the Everyone Onboard group at SYSTRA, shares her support for the partnership renewal, and her ambitions for gender equality at SYSTRA and throughout the transport industry. 

“I’m thrilled that SYSTRA and Women in Transport are continuing their strong partnership. 

“As a women in a male-dominated industry, I’m really passionate about advocating for better gender representation. Our Women in Transport partnership, and my own work with the Everyone Onboard group, is a fantastic opportunity to do just that. 

“It’s vital that the women at SYSTRA, and across the industry, not only feel like there’s a place for them in this line of work, but that they can thrive – that their contributions are worthy and sincerely valued.” 

The business’ Women@SYSTRA internal network also provides a host of opportunities for women at the company, including leadership workshops, networking groups, and forums for discussion on issues such as menopause and imposter syndrome. 

Learn more about ED&I at SYSTRA.

SYSTRA UK & Ireland appoints Jonathan Scott as Managing Director – Engineering

SYSTRA UK & Ireland has appointed Jonathan Scott as Managing Director – Engineering, joining the Executive Board to drive growth and strengthen the company’s position as a leader in delivering sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions.

A Chartered Engineer with more than 30 years’ experience, Jonathan is a recognised figure in the transportation sector. Since joining SYSTRA in 2022 as Operations Director for High-Speed Rail, he has played a pivotal role in expanding the business into markets including energy, and water, and has overseen SYSTRA’s work on HS2 in the West Midlands and at Old Oak Common.

Jonathan has led major infrastructure projects, from both a client and contractor perspective, across the UK and internationally, including California High-Speed Rail and rail systems in the US, Canada and Taiwan. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Engineering Technology (IET) and of renowned rail infrastructure institution The PWI. Jonathan also lectures on degree courses at Glasgow Caledonian University for the Chartered Institution of Railway Operators (CIRO).

In leading the engineering business, Jonathan will work closely with the wider senior leadership team, market directors and colleagues across SYSTRA to deliver efficient, innovative, and sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions to clients. His commitment to technical excellence, coupled with an unwavering dedication to health, safety, security and wellness for all projects and people, will continue to shape Jonathan’s approach in his new role.

Nick Salt, CEO, said: “I am delighted to welcome Jonathan Scott to the Executive Board as Managing Director for our engineering business. His extensive global expertise and proven leadership will be invaluable.

“Having worked with Jonathan for the past few years I know we have a very safe and capable pair of hands taking on this role as SYSTRA Limited continues to grow across transport, energy, water and other markets.”

Jonathan Scott, Managing Director – Engineering, added: “I am thrilled to step into this role at such an exciting time for SYSTRA. With the breadth of expertise within our UK and Ireland teams, we are uniquely placed to deliver smarter, sustainable and more innovative solutions to the complex transport and infrastructure challenges our clients face.”

SYSTRA UK & Ireland joins the ERTICO Partnership

The agreement allows SYSTRA specialists to push further ahead with innovative techniques in data handling, AI, machine learning and bespoke modelling to support sustainable transport planning.

It will create opportunities to apply research and innovation in real-world scenarios and accelerate the adoption of new digital products across European markets.

The ERTICO Partnership bridges the gaps between stakeholders across the ITS community to help make mobility safer, more efficient and sustainable. Together, we lead the digital transformation of transport through the development of cutting-edge technologies, new services and innovative mobility solutions to move people and goods in smarter ways. ERTICO’s Partners share the joint mission to actively promote sustainable collaborative relations with EU institutions and policymakers by connecting local and regional transport organisations with national authorities.  

SYSTRA has been at the forefront of transport modelling for more than 50 years. Its global teams have developed innovative data modelling tools to help cross-sector clients appraise the impacts and outcomes of their schemes and proposals.

The partnership with ERTICO allows SYSTRA to develop new tools and support growth in its data modelling, digital analysis and data science services.

SYSTRA’s innovation team will also benefit from the opportunity to focus on the integration of digital technologies across transport, energy and water markets.

Dr Patrizia Franco FCIHT, Associate Director in Activity and Agent-based Modelling, Data, Modelling and Analysis – Digital at SYSTRA UK & Ireland, said: “To be approved as an ERTICO Partner is an incredible achievement for the team at SYSTRA.

“This will allow us to develop a strong understanding of challenges across climate change, energy and mobility, and how digital innovation contributes to net-zero targets. We will be better positioned to remain agile and respond quickly to projects across the public and private sectors.

“A partnership with ERTICO aligns with our commitment to SYSTRA’s safety and sustainability missions, as well as our wider values and behaviours.

“We hope the partnership will drive innovative enhancements within the data, modelling and analysis environment – which in turn will lead to more efficient outcomes for clients and end users.” 

Joining the ERTICO Partnership is an important way to connect the dots between different sectors across our complex ecosystem. The Partnership enables close collaboration between stakeholders by coordinating the planning and deployment of intelligent transport systems and smart mobility solutions in Europe and beyond.

Find out more about SYSTRA’s data modelling services.

SYSTRA appoints Conor Cleary as Sales Director for Ireland

SYSTRA has appointed Conor Cleary as Sales Director for Ireland to help the business realise its growth ambitions in the country.

Bringing a wealth of experience in business development; strong relationships with clients; and a keen insight into the construction and infrastructure sectors in Ireland, Conor is poised to lead SYSTRA into new opportunities across a range of markets, including transport, water and energy.

Conor has a degree in construction management and started his career as an engineer before moving into project management and business development. His strategic planning and operational execution have been integral to a wealth of building and engineering projects in his 20-year career, from roads and bridges to water and energy.

As part of the Business Development team at SYSTRA Limited, Conor will work closely with our market directors – Andrew Dugdale (conventional rail, highways and mass transit), Joe Botterill (high speed rail), Gareth Davies (water and environment), and James Easty (energy and defence). Together, they are leading a collaborative approach to delivering efficient, innovative, and sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions to clients across the UK and Ireland.

Mike Muldoon, Business Development Director, said: “We’re delighted to have Conor join our team, bringing his substantial business development experience and commitment to supporting sustainable projects that deliver growth and opportunities for Ireland.

“Conor joins us at a crucial time for Ireland with the publication of the National Development Plan and a number of critical challenges to address around transport, infrastructure and the environment, and we look forward to working with him to help our Irish clients meet their goals.”

Conor Cleary, Sales Director for Ireland, added: “I’m excited to join the SYSTRA team here in Ireland to support the business in achieving growth and delivering for our many clients.

“The country faces significant challenges in providing sustainable transport solutions and utility infrastructure to support population growth and energy generation – SYSTRA specialists have global and local experience in these areas.  I look forward to working with the local teams in Ireland and the UK as well as colleagues from across SYSTRA’s global business to deliver sustainable, innovative and effective transport and infrastructure solutions that bring benefits to all stakeholders.”

SYSTRA has offices in Dublin and Cork and is delivering for clients such as Irish Rail, the National Transport Authority, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, and local authorities. Projects include BusConnects, Luas Cork and Safe Routes to School.

Huge Mott MacDonald SYSTRA Design Joint Venture (DJV) designed bridge structure positioned in Birmingham

The 112m long structure was positioned on concrete pillars over a section of Lawley Middleway – part of the city’s ring road – over four nights in August.

The huge span was constructed on land next to Digbeth Canal over the past two years and a specialist skidding system was used to finally move the bridge into place.

The close collaboration between the DJV was particularly important on this project given the overall complexity of the structure. The team was able to ensure their work supported safe and efficient construction.

Abukalam Mulla, SYSTRA’s CAD Production Manager on the project, said: “This is a proud milestone for the team. We are delighted to witness the bridge being successfully erected into position.

“It is deeply rewarding to see our collective design efforts transformed into a tangible structure on site.”

Lawley Middleway bridge forms part of the railway’s approach to Birmingham. High-speed trains will travel out of the west portal of the 3.5 mile Bromford Tunnel at Washwood Heath and onto a one mile stretch of five connected viaducts which links onto the platforms of Birmingham Curzon Street Station.

Tom Lake, Design Project Manager at the Mott MacDonald SYSTRA Design Joint Venture DJV, said: “The Lawley Middleway Viaduct is a landmark moment for Birmingham’s transformation, which showcases the best of modern engineering.

“The entire DJV team are delighted with the successful launch which demonstrates the seamless integration of design innovation and construction expertise. The design balances structural efficiency and a consistent architectural language of the approach viaducts, while meeting complex engineering demands.

“Seeing the 112-metre steel span glide into place is not just an engineering achievement, but a step towards the long-term legacy of HS2.”

Find out more about SYSTRA’s work on HS2.

SYSTRA-designed River Cole realignment completed on HS2

The 749-metre realignment of the River Cole near Coleshill in Warwickshire is the most significant scheme of its kind on the project, and was needed as part of the Delta Junction works, where two new viaducts and a series of railway embankments are being constructed.

The re-naturalisation will improve the existing river environment by creating more meander bends and enhancing habitats in the river and along its banks to maximise biodiversity, and has also seen the creation of new public green spaces and paths alongside the river to enhance community access.

The realignment was designed by the Mott MacDonald SYSTRA DJV and delivered by ecologists and engineers working for HS2’s construction partner Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV). In consultation with external stakeholders, including the Environment Agency, the team has created a holistic nature-based design which goes beyond the standard environmental mitigation measures.

Ian Johnson, Project Director at Mott MacDonald SYSTRA Design Joint Venture said:

“The River Cole realignment incorporates nature-based solutions, ecological enhancements, infrastructure resilience and environmental conservation which ensures the long-term sustainability of the local ecosystem.

“The multi-stage channel design with varied asymmetric cross-sections and increased meander bends creates a more natural river environment and more diverse habitat features, which enhances ecological resilience and promotes biodiversity in the area.

“The design not only improves flood resilience and natural river processes, it also contributes to the overall health of the river ecosystem, reduces carbon during construction, and creates public spaces for people to enjoy.”

“The multi-stage channel design with varied asymmetric cross-sections and increased meander bends creates a more natural river environment and more diverse habitat features, which enhances ecological resilience and promotes biodiversity in the area.

A multi-disciplinary team has been involved in this complex project, including river engineers, geomorphologists, hydraulic modellers, engineers, agrotechnicians, landscape designers, architects and ecologists. With construction of the river realignment now complete, the teams will focus on completing the surrounding embankments and viaducts.

During the development of the design in this area, HS2 Ltd, Balfour Beatty VINCI, and the Mott MacDonald SYSTRA DJV worked closely with the Environment Agency, local community, Independent Design Panel, Warwickshire County Council and North Warwickshire Borough Council.  

The community has been particularly involved in ideas for high-quality pathways for better connectivity, with the design aiming to revive the area’s recreational aspect through the development of public green spaces and paths alongside the river.  

Excavation works were completed in 2024 and temporary dams were then removed, allowing the water to flow into the new river section. The two River Cole viaducts, which span the river, are due to be completed later this year.

Find out more about our work on HS2.

SYSTRA celebrates 25% electrification of Transpennine Route Upgrade

Sunday 3^rd August marked a major step forward in the work, with the first electric passenger train running between York (Colton Junction) and Church Fenton. This was possible thanks to the successful implementation of an Automatic Power Change Over system.

To celebrate this progress, Heidi Alexander MP, Secretary of State for Transport, visited the route on Tuesday 5^th August and travelled on a TransPennine Express bi-mode train between Leeds and York.

As part of the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) East Alliance, alongside Network Rail, Murphy, Siemens and VolkerRail, SYSTRA is delivering a raft of upgrades along the eastern section.

Gareth Hanson, Project Manager at SYSTRA, said: “To reach the milestone of a quarter of the Transpennine main line being electrified is amazing news, and something every member of the SYSTRA TRU East Alliance team is rightly proud of.

“The benefits are already being felt by passengers, including myself, and the environmental impact is also immediate, meaning travel by train is now faster and greener, with more improvements still to come.”

Benefits of the Transpennine Route Upgrade include:

• Carbon emissions cut by up to 108,000 tonnes per year
• More freight by rail, removing more than 1,000 lorries from the road daily 
• Reduced journey times making it quicker to travel between key towns and cities 
• Increased capacity by more than a third, enabling more frequent, faster trains 
• Lasting social and economic value, with more than 5,000 jobs already supported and a peak workforce forecast of 8,000 
• Stations fit for everyone, with increased accessibility and improved customer facilities

Find out more about SYSTRA’s work on the Transpennine Route Upgrade.