Case Studies

North Star was engaged with Grant Thornton to undertake the organisational design and structure of the new national railway company in Oman. We also provided advice on the proposed strategic structure of the railway industry, including relationships with key stakeholders including the Ministry of Transport & Communication and wider regulatory structure.

Read more: New Oman Railway; Industry Structure & Organisational Design

North Star were recruited by a major European international airport to investigate possible options for a rapid direct rail link from the airport to the city centre. Such links had been identified as a ‘key success factor’ for European airports, especially those entering a period of significant growth, with associated infrastructure investment.

Read more: Investigating Options for a Rapid Direct Rail Link between Major European International Airport...

North Star was contacted by the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) to undertake a strategic study to help them understand how they could improve surface access, taking into account their expansion plans, as well as planned and potential improvements for public transport modes serving the airport. This includes a high-speed rail link from Toronto to London Ontario. In addition, the study explored the possible impact of the rapidly developing potential of autonomous vehicles.

Read more: Surface Access options for Pearson Airport in Toronto

North Star is contracted to provide consultancy support to Atkins for all railway operational requirements in their framework contract with the Department for Transport, known as Specialist Technical Advice for Rail (STAR).

The STAR framework was developed by Rail Executives to "procure the very best expertise available within the marketplace to offer specialist railway technical and commercial advisory service that support the DfT’s rail contracting, major rail projects and other rail-related activities."

Read more: Cross Country Franchise Direct Award