More than 700 Carillion rail jobs likely saved in deal

A deal has likely saved more than 700 jobs after they were threatened by the collapse of Carillion.

Amey Rail acquired a “significant number” of the firm’s Network Rail contracts today, covering projects in the East Midlands, London and North West England.

Carillion employees have endured a “very unsettling period,” said Network Rail commercial director Matthew Steele. He called the acquisitions “a positive step for the industry, ensuring the delivery of a number of major rail projects across the country whilst safeguarding an expected 700 jobs and the wider supply chain”.

Projects and employees will transfer from Carillion to Amey over the next weeks and months, said Network Rail. The organisation said it is working with PwC to find long-term arrangements for remaining contracts and staff.

PwC will pay Carillion employees’ wages for work done on and supporting Network Rail contracts until after Easter, and paid the arrears of many smaller rail suppliers to protect important ongoing projects.

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