The Challenge
Colas Rail UK, appointed by Coventry City Council, embarked on constructing a 220-meter on-road test track in Coventry city centre as part of the innovative Very Light Rail (VLR) initiative. This high-profile urban transport infrastructure project aimed to demonstrate a cost-effective and sustainable solution for future city mobility, utilising a novel track system that minimises excavation, cost, and disruption.
Our objective was to create a professional video production that:
-
Showcased the groundbreaking aspects of the VLR technology and its unique track installation process
-
Highlighted Colas Rail UK’s pivotal role and engineering expertise in delivering innovative rail infrastructure projects
-
Captured the project’s progress and significance to the local community, stakeholders, and transport industry professionals
The Approach
To effectively tell the story of this pioneering infrastructure project, we implemented the following strategies:
High-Quality Ground Footage
Utilising Canon EOS R5 mirrorless cameras, we captured sharp, cinematic visuals of the construction activities. The filming focused on the innovative light rail track installation techniques, collaborative on-site efforts, and the engineering precision that underpins the VLR system.
Aerial Drone Filming
Using the DJI Mini 4 Pro, we obtained dynamic aerial footage that provided a comprehensive view of the project’s scale and its integration into the urban landscape. This drone content enhanced the visual storytelling and offered viewers a clear sense of the project’s context within Coventry city centre.
Narrative-Driven Editing
Post-production involved a strategic, narrative-led approach. Through a combination of on-site interviews, construction time-lapse footage, and motion graphics, we crafted a film that emphasised innovation, engineering efficiency, and the potential impact of VLR on sustainable urban transportation.
The Result
The final construction project video served as a powerful communications and marketing asset for Colas Rail UK, delivering a range of outcomes:
Stakeholder Engagement
The video successfully communicated the project’s vision and progress to key audiences—including local government, transport authorities, potential investors, and the general public—strengthening stakeholder relationships and building community awareness.
Brand Positioning
It reinforced Colas Rail UK’s reputation as a leader in sustainable rail infrastructure, light rail innovation, and forward-thinking project delivery.
Educational Resource
The video also serves as an ongoing educational tool, providing a clear overview of Very Light Rail technology and contributing to the national conversation around the future of low-carbon public transport in the UK.
By combining advanced construction filming techniques with strategic storytelling, we delivered a video that not only documented the Coventry VLR project’s milestones but also amplified its potential to transform urban mobility across the UK. This case study highlights how thoughtful transport infrastructure videography can elevate a project’s visibility, support stakeholder communication, and inspire confidence in future-ready solutions.