People Driven Project Solutions

Expert Consulting for Complex Transport & Infrastructure Programmes

We help transport and infrastructure organisations with expert consulting that drives efficiency, innovation, and successful project delivery.

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Mercury3 Consult is a trusted SME and people-driven consultancy specialising in complex transport and infrastructure programmes across the UK and internationally. Founded in 2017 by three industry professionals, we bring deep sector expertise and a flexible, people-first approach.

We help clients overcome challenges, improve performance, and achieve lasting results—wherever they are in their delivery journey.

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We bring more than expertise — we bring results.

People-Driven: Strong client relationships and a collaborative, high-performing team.
Tailored Solutions: Agile support across every phase of the project lifecycle.
Specialist Expertise: Decades of experience in complex, high-value programmes.
Proven Impact: Measurable improvements in delivery, cost-effectiveness, and performance.

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8

Years
In Operation

25

Clients
Served

60+

Projects
Delivered

93.4%

Customer
Satisfaction

95%

Likelihood to Recommend

Who We Work With

What We Do

Our team brings deep sector knowledge, hands-on experience, and a people-first mindset to every challenge.

From interim leadership to full programme delivery, we offer flexible support across project and programme management, business transformation, rail operations and maintenance, engineering, asset management, and health & safety.

Whether integrating with client teams or leading workstreams, we focus on reducing risk, improving outcomes, and delivering lasting results for public and private sector clients.

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Leading your projects to success through a people-first approach, expert guidance, and seamless integration.

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Driving sustainable change with tailored solutions focused on people, processes, systems, and culture.

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Supporting efficient, safe, and future-ready rail systems with deep operational expertise.

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Helping organisations operate efficiently and sustainably with expert technical and asset support.

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Practical, tailored health and safety support for small businesses that reduces risk, strengthens compliance and protects people.

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Toronto skyline and Lake Ontario aerial view, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Driving Connectivity in Canada Through Specialist Project Management

When CPCS sought to strengthen their consultancy team with specialist project management expertise, they turned to Mercury3 Consult. As part of our expanding partnership, we are proud to support the Eglinton West Crosstown Extension (ECWE) in Greater Toronto, Canada.

The WH Davis team gathering to launch their Whiteboard Control Room at the Shirebrook site.

Strengthening Production Control Through Visual Management at WH Davis

Mercury3 Consult were engaged to design & implement a Whiteboard based Control Room and introduce visual management & project management principles aligned to WH Davis’s operational needs. Using a simple four-phase lifecycle approach – familiarisation, design & installation, application & embedding, & launch – Mercury3 Consult worked closely with the leadership & operational teams to ensure...

Aerial view of Piccadilly train station, Manchester City Centre at night.

Transforming Network Rail’s Asset Management with Citadel

Network Rail embarked on a major digital transformation, replacing its legacy Operational Property Asset System (OPAS) with Citadel, a new Enterprise Asset Management System. Mercury3 Consult was engaged to ensure a smooth transition, supporting the National Performance and Support team through every stage of implementation and organisational change.

Exhibits on the Turntable Roads at the National Railway Museum, York

Safeguarding Heritage Rail Assets at the National Railway Museum

Mercury3 Consult was appointed to provide independent technical advisory support, helping ensure the works were planned and delivered in line with appropriate railway engineering standards and asset management best practice.

Train tracks illustrating Fibre Optic Acoustic Sensing (FOAS) technology

Technical Advisory Support for Ramboll’s Synthetic Environment Bid

The Synthetic Environment (SE) is a pioneering tool developed under the T190+ Programme, aiming to transform Britain’s railways by reducing signalling costs and enhancing sustainability. Central to this initiative is the deployment of in-cab signalling via the European Train Control System (ETCS), which will significantly reduce the need for traditional lineside infrastructure.

Strategic Asset Management for TfW Station & Depot Transfer

In March 2020, the Core Valley Lines were successfully transferred from Network Rail (NR) to Transport for Wales (TfW). Building on this, TfW proposed a similar transfer process for up to 193 stations and five depots under a long-term lease arrangement. To facilitate this, a comprehensive business case process was required, consisting of a Strategic Outline Business Case (SOBC), an Outline...

Moving tram train driving through a train station

Driving Clarity & Collaboration for Cardiff Crossrail

Transport for Wales (TfW) is delivering a major infrastructure programme centered on Cardiff Central Station. This programme is a series of interconnected infrastructure projects, including the high-profile Cardiff Crossrail project.

Team members sitting a table in the office, looking at a laptop

Delivering Access for All Through Expert Portfolio Management

The Access for All (AFA) programme, funded by the Department for Transport, aims to improve accessibility at UK railway stations by providing an obstacle-free, level-access route between drop-off locations, the station entrance and all platforms.

Empty train platform at Victoria station

Project Management Expertise for Station Access Charges & Industry Consultation

Industry consultation to review Station Access Charges, including Qualifying Expenditure and Long-Term Charge proposals as part of the ORR Periodic Review 23 consultation for the UK’s Managed Stations and Franchised Stations and Network Rail’s Control Period 7 Strategic Business Plan.

Driving Revenue & Clarity Through Freight Contract Management

The objective of the project was to identify Freight Connection Contracts that were missing and to bring new contracts to freight end users. The missing connections were contracts that had either not been set up or their owners/lessees had changed, and the agreement had not been updated.

Outside London King's Cross Station, UK (shutterstock_797469370)

Project Management for Customer Experience & Accessibility at Managed Stations

Network Rail’s Customer Experience & Accessibility team required a Project Manager to lead the team’s reorganisation and governance structure to assess workload, volume, and value of work. The role also involved providing support to the Great British Railway Transition Team.

Blurred people crossing a platform at rush hour at London Kings Cross Station, UK

Improving Customer & Stakeholder Management Through Strategic Project Management

The Network Rail Executive Leadership Team sought assurance and evidence of processes against sixteen key business topics through the GRAI programme—Governance, Risk, Assurance, and Improvement.

People walking through London Liverpool Street Station

Transforming 21st Century Rail Operations in Anglia

Due to a growing increase in train operations and train operators in the Anglia region, a review of the complexity of operations and associated processes was required. The ORR, and independent reports, suggested a focus on a change in the operating model for effectively handling 21st-century demands.

Network Rail car park during installation of electric vehicle chargers

Powering a Greener Network: EV Infrastructure & Safety Delivery

As the UK pushes toward net zero, organisations like Network Rail are taking significant steps to decarbonise their operations. Between 2022 and 2024, Mercury3 Consult supported the National Road Fleet Transformation (NRFT) Programme, helping to design and deliver scalable electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure nationwide. By combining programme management, safety assurance, and construction...

Four team members gathered around a project plan in the office, smiling at the camera

Delivering Operations Expertise to Support the Transpennine Route Upgrade

The Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) programme is a £2.9bn programme of works, tasked with delivering various strategic outputs including journey time improvements and capacity increases between Manchester and York, as part of the overall Northern Powerhouse works.

Embedding Expertise in Project Management Across the Digital Railway Programme

Since May 2017, Mercury3 has provided a range of resources with previous Digital Railway experience (e.g. on Cambrian or East Coast) as the project has evolved, including: engineering manager, programme manager, project interface lead, project manager and planner and business change and operations specialists.

Inside Manchester Rail Operating Centre (ROC)

Enabling Operational Change at Manchester ROC Through Strategic Engagement

The Manchester ROC Traffic Management is a ‘change and engagement’ led project which aims to improve operating performance by: reducing train delay, improving passenger information and improving the working environment for operations staff.

A train travelling over a bridge across a river

Providing Project & Bid Leadership for TRU’s West of Leeds Alliance

An LNER Azuma train approaching a platform at Peterborough Station

Strategic Project Mobilisation for the ETCS Long Term Deployment Plan (LTDP)

The Long Term Deployment Plan proposes a partnership between Network Rail, train and freight operating companies, the supply chain and the Department for Transport; to work together to implement a European Train Control System (ETCS) across the UK rail network.

Three team members reviewing a project plan on a wall, with one pointing to it.

Leading Business Change for TRU Digital Train Control Deployment

Adopting and implementing a Business Change Strategy was identified from lessons learnt across Europe as a critical enabler to the safe and successful deployment of ETCS and a TM system. Therefore, Mercury3 were instructed to lead this workstream and deliver alongside Arcadis on the project’s behalf.

Project Managing the Portable ETCS Feasibility Study

The European Train Control System (ETCS) is part of the rail industry’s programme to roll out the introduction of modern signalling and train control technology across the network, which will increase capacity, reduce delays, enhance safety and drive down costs.

Strengthening Operational Safety Through Signaller Development & Competency Management

Supporting Network Rail’s safety vision of ‘Everyone Home Safe Everyday', Mercury3 Consult were engaged to work with the client team to help deliver elements within the 21st Century Operations portfolio.

An ETCS-fitted Class 180 at NR's Rail Innovation & Development Centre. NETWORK RAIL

Delivering Expert Consultancy for the Rail Innovation & Development Centre Test Track (RIDC)

Platform at Darlington Station at sunset

Enhancing Station Longevity through Specialised Asset Management Expertise

At Mercury3 Consult, we possess specialised knowledge from both the perspective of an asset owner, such as Network Rail, and that of a TOC. This unique expertise positioned us well to work with Costain, our StarThree framework partners, to provide the necessary support to the DfT.

Automatic ticket barriers at London Paddington station

Championing Inclusive Design Across the UK Rail Network

Mercury3 Consult was engaged to provide ongoing coordination, project management, and administrative support to BEAP, ensuring the panel operate effectively and delivers consistent, high-quality advice across a broad portfolio of projects.

Day view landscape British train on Railroad.

Programme Management Support for Network Rail’s SCO Rail Vehicle Portfolio

Mercury3 Consult supported the programme through structured reviews, clear performance reporting and practical coordination across stakeholders. This included maintaining oversight of delivery plans, surfacing risks and issues, and supporting timely decisions with concise, evidence-based insight.

Our Success Stories

Our Mercury3 Consult Experts

Adam Bennett
Managing Director

As Managing Director, Adam is a proven business leader with extensive experience leading growth across the infrastructure sector. Adam brings a strong track record in developing new market entry strategies, securing major commissions, and building high-performing teams. Adam has led the delivery of multi-million-pound P&L business units, navigating complex procurement environments and driving sustainable commercial success.

Trevor Marshall MAPM, MCIRO
Owner Director

As a co-founder of Mercury3 Consult, and a seasoned railway operations and project management professional, Trevor is a dedicated leader committed to developing people-centric cultures and driving business success. With extensive industry experience, he brings passion and expertise to every initiative, ensuring impactful results for clients and the organisation.

Ian Watson
Owner Director

As a co-founder of Mercury3 Consult, Ian is known for swiftly adapting to new challenges while inspiring and motivating high-performing teams. Recognised for strong leadership, clear communication, and exceptional problem-solving abilities, he consistently delivers outstanding results. As a trusted and respected consultant within the rail industry, Ian has a reputation built on delivery and excellence.

Phil Crow
Professional Services Director

Leading our Professional Service delivery, Phil is a strategic senior leader with a proven track record of delivering transformative change programmes. His extensive experience in the transport industry makes him an invaluable resource to both clients and colleagues alike, driving innovative solutions and sustained growth.

Christian Stickland, Head of Technical Services.

Christian Stickland FCIRO
Head of Technical Services

Christian leads our Technical Services team which includes Operations & Maintenance, and Engineering & Asset Management services. A highly accomplished Railway Operations expert, he excels in stakeholder management and team leadership, consistently delivering results that exceed expectations in complex, fast-paced environments.

Craig Melhuish
Head of Programme & Project Management

With over 22 years of programme & project management experience in the railway industry, Craig is a specialist in delivering multidisciplinary schemes. Leading our Programme & Project management team, he has recently led assurance initiatives focused on pre-construction site safety. Craig has a proven ability to manage complex programmes, champion safety leadership, and cultivate high-performing teams, even in the most challenging environments.

Glen Middleton, HR Manager / Senior HR Consultant

Glen Middleton Assoc. CIPD
Business & People Manager

With over 10 years of HR experience across various sectors, Glen is a seasoned HR generalist specialising in organisational design and development. He is passionate about driving transformational business change and is committed to placing people at the heart of every transformation.

Kat, Business Development & Communications Specialist

Kat Purves
Business Development & Communications Specialist

Kat is our Business Development & Communications Specialist. She plays a key role in supporting the company’s growth by leading business development activities, strengthening client engagement, and overseeing the company’s marketing and communications.

Jolas Sutherland
Finance Assistant

Jolas is a Finance Analyst supporting the finance function across day‑to‑day operations and strategic initiatives. He is responsible for managing expenses, invoicing, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, providing accurate and timely financial insights that support business growth.

Niall Melvin CMgr MCMI
Principal Consultant

With over 20 years of experience in the UK rail industry, Niall has held a diverse range of roles spanning support functions – including Commercial & Contract Management, Finance, and Property – as well as frontline operations as a skilled Train Manager. He has also played a key role in cross-industry partnerships, shaping long-term strategies for station development.

James Brownhill
Principal Consultant

Based in York with 22 years of experience in the rail industry, James is a Chartered Engineer, specialising in Railway Signalling. James has a wealth of experience both in design and engineering management gained across several organisations, with excellent knowledge and understanding of both conventional signalling and modern systems such as ERTMS.

Joanne McClure
Senior Consultant

Joanne is based in York and has over 23 years of experience in the rail industry, working across various disciplines. Her expertise includes health and safety, contract management, asset management, programme and project management, policy development, and stakeholder and relationship management.

Paul Gill
Senior Consultant

Paul is a Yorkshire native and is based in the York area. Paul joined Mercury3 in Oct 2020, looking for a new challenge after 12 years working in the higher education sector.

Simon Smith
Principal Consultant

Simon is based in Oxfordshire, with over 32 years of rail industry experience predominantly leading large teams in operations and maintenance but also including performance projects, major projects, and business change.

Norman Hugill
Heritage Rail Consultant

With a lifelong dedication to rail, Norman is our Heritage Rail Consultant, bringing over 45 years of operational experience to the team. From his early days as a ‘relief book lad’ to serving as Chief Signalling Inspector and spending 14 years working on the Royal Train, Norman’s career has spanned traditional signal boxes, mainline operations, and heritage railways.

Matthew West
Junior Consultant

Matt is a dedicated Junior Consultant with several years of experience working on a diverse range of projects. During his time at Mercury3 Consult, he has contributed to initiatives ranging from business transformation to the deployment of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. With a strong commitment to professionalism and excellence, Matt consistently strives to help deliver projects on time and to the highest standard.

Irene Femenia
Junior Consultant

Irene is a Junior Consultant with experience in providing project management support. She brings strong transferable skills in finance, with expertise in reporting, budgeting, and data analysis, as well as stakeholder engagement and team collaboration. Known for her resilience and proactive approach, Irene navigates challenges with confidence and efficiency, making her a valuable asset to any project.

Joe Moore
Chartered Management Degree Apprentice

Joe is in the final year of his Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship, combining academic learning with hands-on experience in the workplace. Throughout his apprenticeship, he has worked on a range of business projects, gaining valuable insights into management practices and operations.