Rail disputes

Our specialist dispute resolution experts are a core part of our dedicated rail team.

We have deep experience and understand what is needed to win the most complex and difficult cases; doing so quickly and efficiently. Our team prides itself on creating effective dispute management strategies at the outset of a problem in order to narrow the issues and promote an early resolution of the dispute and has a reputation for commercial and practical problem solving.

We advise on disputes across all areas of the industry and act for a wide range of TOCs, rolling stock manufacturers, government bodies, main contractors and sub-contractors. We are also experienced in using alternative dispute resolution techniques alongside arbitration and litigation as well as under the Access Dispute Committee Rules and the Rail Industry Dispute Resolution Rules.

Contentious applications

Advising a number of operators in relation to contested applications to the ORR for the access of both track and stations, such as the Heathrow spur and stations and Southend Airport.

Station disputes

Advising a train operator in relation to claims against Network Rail for costs and loss of revenue arising from the closure of a vital station on the train operator's network.

Disputes in relation to the delivery of rolling stock

Advising a manufacturer of rolling stock in relation claims for delay and the resolution of differences between the parties associated with the delivery of new trains. This has also included through the use of formal dispute resolution procedures.

Procurement challenge

Advising a train operating group in relation to its challenge, in the high court, of the DfT's decision to disqualify a bid to run a particular franchise on the UK rail network.

Timetable Planning Rules

Advising a client in connection with a dispute in relation to Network Rail’s timetable planning rules, which was ultimately heard by the Timetabling Panel of the Access Disputes Committee.