2006 saw a record growth in the supply of level crossing and track access platforms; the successful launch of The HoldFast Rubber Highway; the installation of a second plant to meet Anti-Trespass Guard demand; and the continued extension into supply train depot and service platforms.

HoldFast’s Managing Director, Peter Coates Smith, is sure of the reasons for the Company’s record growth: “HoldFast is all about providing innovative but durable solutions that improve safety, improve the environment and are simple to maintain and install, and that’s what our customers want.” HoldFast’s level crossings are now in such high demand that panels are being manufactured 24 hours a day, six days a week.

The Rubber Highway
HoldFast’s launch of their Rubber Highway in Corby made a headline news story when launched on 1 June 2006. This is the world’s first continuous rubber platform created for laying on track to facilitate wheeled traffic to travel up and down track.

The Corby trials successfully proved the processes of installation, operation and maintenance. The environmental benefits are obvious. The system provides an affordable means of turning otherwise redundant rail track in to a flexible route for trams, cars or guided buses. Furthermore, 256,400 car tyres or 76,900 truck tyres would be recycled in every one mile stretch of rubber highway laid!

The opportunity to lay HoldFast Rubber Highway is already creating new alternatives for operating guided buses through congested urban zones and potential projects are currently under evaluation.

Favourites for Depot Platforms
HoldFast has expanded into supplying an increasing number of works platforms for train maintenance and service depots. Once such example (pictured) is the Siemens Train Maintenance Depot at Kings Heath, Northampton. This was created as part of the modernisation programme on the West Coast Main Line, helping to provide sustainable, reliable rail services. HoldFast supplied all the footpath crossings and depot platforms, in addition to the adjustable rail clips for the service lines.

Improving Safety at level crossings and stations with Anti Trespass Guards
This latest HoldFast innovation presents major benefits to existing anti-trespass installations and it seems to be replacing wooden alternatives across the UK. Like all HoldFast products, it has been designed and constructed for easy installation; maximum safety; durability and long life.

Supplied complete with simple fixings, it is very easy to install and, of course, to remove and replace for tamping. Unlike wood, the solid rubber will not break up and there is no threat of track circuitry failure. So durable are they that HoldFast claim an indefinite (25+ years) lifespan.

They can be used with all rubber crossings (polymer, concrete, rubber, timber) and to deter trespassers at station platform ends. They fit any sleeper and any rail section and are cut to fit for the six foot area.