Hillmoore Fire Protection contributes to enhanced mobile coverage in London’s Elizabeth line

The Elizabeth line, a key east-west railway in London, now offers high-speed 4G and 5G mobile coverage within its first tunnelled section, with help from Hillmoore Fire Protection.

This advancement aims to improve connectivity within London’s underground stations and tunnels.

Transport for London (TfL) expects to extend this coverage to key locations including Whitechapel, Canary Wharf, and Woolwich by the end of the summer.

Hillmoore Fire Protection, known for its expertise in passive fire protection systems, played a critical role in the project.

The company was tasked with constructing blast-proof communications rooms as part of the engineering team working on the mobile network infrastructure.

A challenging installation schedule

Working under tight deadlines, a team of 500 individuals operated across the tube network to install the necessary communications systems.

Hillmoore was introduced to the IT firm commissioned by TfL and was required to implement specialist passive fire protection solutions.

This needed to be achieved within strict time constraints to ensure that the lines reopened to passengers each morning.

Hillmoore’s engineering team joined the effort by designing and installing enclosures made from Durasteel, a fire- and blast-resistant material.

The team met the demanding 60-minute fire integrity specification, completing installations during a planned weekend travel closure.

Durasteel technology helps protect critical infrastructure

Hillmoore’s use of Durasteel was essential in ensuring that the new communications and electrical systems were protected.

Durasteel is a composite panel made of fibre-reinforced cement and steel sheets.

It is fully certified and has been installed in various locations globally, known for its resistance to fire and high-impact blasts.

Over one weekend, Hillmoore successfully completed the installation of six Durasteel enclosures across three stations.

The work was completed in preparation for the new mobile network infrastructure.

TfL and Hillmoore continue collaboration

Following their successful work, Hillmoore has been instructed to continue contributing to the project, with plans to work on additional London Underground lines over the next two years.

The collaboration with TfL and the IT firm highlights the importance of precise engineering in such high-profile public transport projects.

The mobile coverage expansion benefits passengers travelling between Liverpool Street and Paddington.

This improvement, in addition to enhancing communication, aims to improve the passenger experience.

Amir Dawoodbhai, a member of TfL’s Youth Panel, spoke about the project’s benefits.

He said: “Mobile coverage on the Tube and Elizabeth line enhances young people’s perception of safety as they travel independently through London.”

Hillmoore’s ongoing involvement in transport projects

Hillmoore Fire Protection continues to work closely with TfL on expanding mobile coverage to other lines in London’s transport network.

Their expertise in fire protection solutions has proven essential in ensuring that critical infrastructure meets both safety and functional requirements.

This work forms part of broader efforts to improve London’s underground communication capabilities, contributing to the city’s long-term transport strategy.

Mobile coverage expanded on Elizabeth line with help from Hillmoore Fire Protection: Summary

Hillmoore Fire Protection played a key role in expanding mobile coverage on London’s Elizabeth line.

They installed fire- and blast-resistant Durasteel enclosures to protect new communications equipment.

The coverage, which currently spans the tunnels between Liverpool Street and Paddington, is set to be extended to other parts of the line by the end of summer.

Hillmoore’s work was commended by both TfL and the IT company involved, and they have been engaged for further projects across other underground lines over the next two years.